Bertie Ahern
Question:3 Mr. B. Ahern asked the Taoiseach the estimated number of visitors to Government Buildings since they were opened to the public on Saturdays in June 1992; and if he intends to continue this practice. [3656/95]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Buildings Visitors.
Over 24,500 people have visited Government Buildings since the Saturday tours started in 1992. I am happy to continue this practice.
I thank the Taoiseach for that information. Will he acknowledge that the decision by his predecessor to open Government Buildings to the public was an excellent one? Will the Taoiseach ask the Minister for the Environment and the Tánaiste to consider opening the Custom House and Iveagh House to the public? The decision to open Government Buildings has proved successful as people are even visiting the buildings in the winter months. I am aware such public visits cause some inconvenience, but Iveagh House and the Custom House are buildings of considerable architectural and historical importance and would be suitable for members of the public, particularly tourists, to visit during the summer weeks.
I am quite happy to give credit to my predecessor for the decision to open Government Buildings to the public. The opening of the Custom House and Iveagh House to visitors is a matter for the Departments concerned, but I will be happy to convey the Deputy's views on the matter to my colleagues.
The Taoiseach should try to arrange some visits to the offices of the Ministers of State.
Visitors would be welcome.
The Minister of State must be lonely as nobody is calling to see him in the west wing.