Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 November 2018
237. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she was consulted or if her attention was drawn to the decision by the OPW to dispose of a site (details supplied) by public auction; and if she will by order undertake its preservation as a monument of national importance in view of its uncertain future. [47463/18]
View answerMy functions as Minister with regard to the protection of our architectural heritage are set out in the Planning and Development Acts, as are the responsibilities of local authorities and owners.
In relation to the site mentioned by the Deputy, I am aware of the decision by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to dispose of the site. While the sale is a matter for the OPW, and I have no function as Minister, I do understand and appreciate the value such a building would have, particularly to those for whom it has a historic association.
The primary function of the National Monuments Acts is to record and protect ancient sites and features. The focus of the Acts on archaeological remains and traces does not extend to more modern buildings and structures. Accordingly, while the Model School is undoubtedly of local interest and importance, it would not, unfortunately, be an appropriate case for inclusion in the records of monuments compiled by the Department under those Acts.
The Planning and Development Acts give primary responsibility to local authorities to identify and protect our architectural heritage by including particular structures on their Record of Protected Structures (RPS). Inclusion on the RPS places a duty of care on the owners and occupiers of protected structures and also gives planning authorities powers to deal with development proposals affecting them and to seek to safeguard their future.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the building mentioned is not on the Record of Protected Structures (RPS). Ultimately, the final decision as to inclusion of a building or structure on the RPS remains a reserved function of the planning authority, in this case Dublin City Council.
