Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 October 2022
252. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the case of a mural (details supplied); the reason that the mural was painted over; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48324/22]
View answerI understand from my officials that the mural in question was placed on a wall in the laneway off Castle Street in Tralee, and was part of a temporary arrangement with the owner of the property for the duration of the filming of a film. The wall in question is owned by a private retail business.
The OPW shares parts of the building facade with the business. Recently, as part of a planned maintenance programme, the OPW’s Property Maintenance Division was carrying out routine external painting maintenance of Atlas House to enhance the aesthetic of the building. The OPW agreed the painting scheme with the owners of the shop. At no stage was the OPW alerted that there was any long-standing agreement in place to retain the artwork on the wall, beyond the temporary nature outlined above, and proceeded with the works as was agreed between the property owners.
