Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2021
186. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current policy regarding the use of lodges in the Phoenix Park; if each lodge has been refurbished; if each one is currently occupied in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35918/21]
View answerI am advised by my officials that there are 41 lodges/properties in the Phoenix Park. These properties are primarily allocated to staff in specific posts where there is a requirement for officials to be present on the ground as part of their employment.
Lodges like those in the Phoenix Park are considered intrinsic to the historic estates, parks and gardens in the care of the OPW and are retained for State use.
A number of these properties are located within secure areas of the Park e.g. Aras an Uachtarain and as such are not accessible to members of the public.. The OPW has provided to the Deputy, a more general overview of occupancy of lodges in the Phoenix Park, so as to protect both the privacy of individual residents/employees and to avoid potential security issues arising from highlighting individual properties that may be vacant.
Of the 41 lodges in the Phoenix Park, there are 9 currently vacant primarily due to their poor condition and/or location which makes them unsuitable for modern occupation. These include 3 cottages, 2 Gate lodges, 2 keepers lodges and 2 flats.
There is an ongoing programme to refurbish a number of lodges on a phased basis, subject to resources.
