Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 6

Written Answers. - Department of Agriculture and Food Building.

Seán Ryan

Question:

49 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline (a) when the problem with the precast panels of the Department of Agriculture and Food building was first noticed, (b) when they were subsequently deemed to be dangerous to the public, (c) when the protective timber sheltering was erected, (d) the cost of this sheltering and related work, (e) when the consultants were appointed to analyse the problem, (f) when the consultants produced their final report, (g) the recommendations of the consultants, (h) the extent of the works recommended as being necessary, (i) the cost of the works recommended, (j) whether tenders have been sought, (k) when it is proposed to commence the works and (l) the length of time involved to complete the works; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. N. Treacy)

The problem with the precast panels in Agriculture House was discovered in May 1989. Following a more detailed inspection the timber hoarding was erected in August 1989 at a cost of approximately £30,000 as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the staff and the general public.

An interim survey having been undertaken by EOLAS, a firm of consultant engineers with specialist expertise was appointed in May 1990 to identify the cause of the problem and to compile a programme of remedial works. A preliminary report received from the consultants in March 1991 indicated that the problem was due to a number of factors which relate to the particular design of Agriculture House and to the techniques employed in its construction. Following the completion of a trial programme of work which was undertaken to determine the best method of dealing with the problem the consultants produced their final report in December 1991. The consultants have recommended structural repairs and remodelling of all damaged panels to match their original profile.

Tenders will be invited shortly, at which stage the definitive cost will be determined. It is expected that the work will commence later this summer and take 12 months to complete. Provision has been made in the Vote for the Office of Public Works, 1992, for expenditure likely to arise on works during the current year.