Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
146. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if the OPW retains an ability to initiate a compulsory purchase lands and buildings; and if not, if he will point to the amending legislation. [43632/23]
View answerThe Commissioners of Public Works have the ability to initiate a compulsory purchase of lands and buildings under the following legislation:
• Barrow Drainage Act 1927 and 1933:
• Enacted to make provision for the formulation and maintenance of a scheme of arterial drainage on the River Barrow and its tributaries. Section 7 of the Act empowered the Commissioners to compulsorily acquire lands or rights in lands in connection with a scheme approved by the Minister.
• Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 - 1995:
• Enacted to make provision for drainage and improvement of land by the execution of works of arterial drainage.
• Coast Protection Act 1963:
• Enacted to make provision for coastal protection and encroachment by the sea in connection with schemes approved by the Minister.
• Garda Síochána (Acquisition of Sites and Retention of Premises) Act 1948:
• Enacted to provide for the acquisition, (with the consent of the Ministers for Justice and Finance), of land as a site for a Garda Síochána station or for a house for a member of the Garda Síochána.
