Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 July 2012
26 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he has been briefed by the Abbey Theatre, Dublin, on the recent discovery of asbestos in the theatre building; if he is satisfied with the proposed programmes of repair to the historic national theatre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35039/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm to the Deputy that I have been briefed in relation to the discovery of asbestos in the Abbey Theatre. Officials from my Department are in contact with the management of the Abbey Theatre on progress in relation to the asbestos removal works. I understand that the requisite removal work has been completed in respect of the Peacock Theatre area of the Abbey complex and that work will commence this week on the removal of asbestos from the Abbey auditorium. I am advised that this work, which is taking place under appropriate expert supervision, should be completed by early September. In the interim, I understand that the Abbey Theatre's production of Sean O'Casey's "The Plough and the Stars" will be relocated to the O'Reilly Theatre on Great Denmark Street, Dublin 1.
