Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 27 Apr 1966

Vol. 222 No. 4

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Nelson Pillar.

29.

Mr. O.J. Flanagan

asked the Minister for Finance what is the total cost to date in connection with the removal of Nelson Pillar; the total amount claimed by way of damage to property in connection with the removal of it; what claims have been received to date; what was the cost involved to Dublin Corporation in relation to this matter; if he can give any indication as to the amount by way of increased rate which it will impose on the ratepayers of the city; and if he will make a general statement in relation to total financial expenditure on this matter.

30.

Mr. M.J. O'Higgins

asked the Minister for Finance the number and total amount of claims for damage and compensation received to date arising from (a) the explosion which partially demolished Nelson Pillar, and (b) the destruction on Government instructions of the remainder of the column.

Mr. J. Lynch:

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 30 together.

The explosion which partially demolished Nelson Pillar has resulted to date in 36 claims for damage totalling £18,864 19. 3. There are two other claims for unspecified amounts. Following removal of the remainder of the Pillar, 19 claims were lodged totalling £1,988 10. 7. with 9 further claims for unspecified sums. The cost to date of removing the Pillar was—Dublin Corporation, £7,500; Department of Defence, £130.

The final cost either to the Dublin Corporation or to the State of removing the Pillar cannot be given until, firstly, the claims for unspecified amounts are clarified; secondly, the claims arising out of the first explosion are determined by the courts and, finally, the remainder of the claims have been examined and settled.