I can confirm to the Deputy that I have been briefed in relation to the discovery of asbestos in the Abbey Theatre. Officials from my Department are in contact with the management of the Abbey Theatre on progress in relation to the asbestos removal works. I understand that the requisite removal work has been completed in respect of the Peacock Theatre area of the Abbey complex and that work will commence this week on the removal of asbestos from the Abbey auditorium. I am advised that this work, which is taking place under appropriate expert supervision, should be completed by early September. In the interim, I understand that the Abbey Theatre's production of Sean O'Casey's "The Plough and the Stars" will be relocated to the O'Reilly Theatre on Great Denmark Street, Dublin 1.