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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 5

Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Buildings: Guided Tours.

Tom Enright

Question:

5 Mr. Enright asked the Taoiseach if he will outline, (a) the locations used arrangements under which Government Buildings will be open for viewing by the general public, (b) the days and hours of such openings and (c) the offices which will be open to the general public for viewing.

From the first Saturday in June next, Government Buildings will be open to the public each Saturday for guided tours on a basis to be arranged by the Office of Public Works.

It is intended that these tours will take in the various conference, reception and corridor areas together with the Council Chamber, and the Taoiseach's Office.

I have established an interdepartmental committee under the chairmanship of my Department to draw up the necessary detailed plans, including security aspects, and to report back to me without delay. Details of the final arrangements will be published in advance, including opening times, etc.

As I announced already, it is my intention that these fine buildings will be open to enable the general public to see the splendid renovation and refurbishment works which have been undertaken and to experience, at first hand, the excellence of the architectural design, the stonework itself and Irish craftsmanship of the highest quality.

I should also mention, of course, that the practice of allowing tours for organised groups, who have made a prior written application to the Secretary of my Department, and to which I referred in my reply here to a question on 3 March, will continue to apply.

I am sure many taxpayers will be happy to be given an opportunity of seeing how their money has been spent. Aside from that, has the Taoiseach any plans to extend this proposal further to include, say, Iveagh House, the Custom House, the building that houses the Department of Education, or any others, to be open to the public on some pre-arranged dates as well?

I have no such plans at present but I will certainly consider the Deputy's suggestion.

In regard to the arrangements for guided tours, will the Taoiseach endeavour to ensure the people currently unemployed will be given an opportunity of being deployed on some of the extra work generated as a result of providing a guided tour service to Government Buildings, so that the service will not be provided solely by way of extra overtime for those already employed?

That is a different matter but we will certainly take it into consideration.

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