Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 January 2024
77. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is aware that the original gates of the former Marlborough Barracks, now known as McKee Barracks off Blackhorse Avenue, are being kept in storage, that temporary gates were installed in the mid-1980s, and if he and his Department are willing to evaluate the condition of the original gates and reinstall them. [2776/24]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that we have placed significant capital investment in refurbishing McKee Barracks, including the refurbishment and upgrade of Block H, McKee barracks which was shortlisted for an RIAI award. This projects highlight not only the Department’s commitment to providing high quality accommodation to service personnel, but also our recognition of the importance of maintaining Ireland’s built heritage for the benefit of future generations. In addition, Government investment to date in McKee Barracks has seen the completion of a Barracks HQ building, while this year will see the completion of the refurbishment of Block F, as well as works on medical facilities and the Printing Press building. This year will also see the start of construction on a new centralised locker facility. In total, these projects represent a capital investment of over €25 million with the barracks complex, all of which are designed to be sympathetic to this historically and architecturally important set of buildings.
My officials understand that while the original gates were removed in the 1980’s and replaced with replicas, aspects of the original gates have been retained in storage. In light of the significant restoration works underway in the installation as mentioned above, I have instructed my officials to liaise with their Defence Forces colleagues to determine whether any of the material is salvageable for restoration purposes and report back to me on same.
