Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
434. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if consideration will be given in conjunction with the OPW to allowing a park (details supplied) to be kept open 24-hours a day during the summer months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30951/21]
View answerSt Stephen’s Green is a National Monument which contains a number of important historic sculptures and features, including floral displays. The OPW’s role is to protect and preserve Ireland’s national heritage including St Stephens Green for current and future generations. As one of Dublin city's major tourist attractions welcoming over 4 million visitors a year, it is imperative that this cultural site is available to visitors during normal opening hours.
The OPW does not consider this important heritage site to be an appropriate place for late night socialising. The OPW has limited staffing and operating resources which are directed at the care and presentation of this important site to the public. OPW is not resourced in anyway to deal with the type of operations proposed by the Deputy. Further, there is no public lighting in St Stephen's Green and therefore it is unsafe for recreational usage in hours of darkness.
