Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
525. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if the Office of Public Works plans to refurbish the vacant public toilets on Infirmary Road, Dublin 7 overlooking the children’s playground at the Phoenix Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37911/23]
View answerThe facilities located on Infirmary Road have not been in use for over 15 years and when in use, Dublin City Council employed a caretaker who opened/ closed and maintained the toilets. Unfortunately, the building was subject to considerable anti-social behaviour and arson. This led to the decision by DCC to close them to the public.
The Office of Public Works is preparing to go to tender for some remedial works to the external fabric of the building on Infirmary Road which you have referenced. The building is in a state of disrepair and the works being planned are to the roof and upgrading the windows. It is envisaged, subject to a successful tendering process, that a contractor should be on site later this year. While the building will be made safe and be secured, the OPW has no plans in place to reinstate facilities on the Infirmary Road area. However, the OPW is open to working with DCC should the council wish to reinstate the previous arrangements for the operation of these bathrooms.
I can advise that there are several toilet facilities located within the Park. These are all open during daylight hours where cleaning staff provide passive surveillance. The provision of toilet facilities in the Park is kept under continuous review.
