Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 May 2013
12. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the expected completion date of the renovation of the National Gallery of Ireland and the Irish Museum of Modern Art; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26119/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraA comprehensive refurbishment project is currently underway in the National Gallery of Ireland. The project is focusing on a complete refurbishment of the historic core of the National Gallery – the Dargan and Milltown Wings. The finished project will ensure that the Gallery space will have upgraded climate, heating, fire suppression, electrical, lighting and security systems. This should ensure that the Gallery will be able to operate and meet international standards for the exhibition of its own collection and visiting artworks from other important collections. It is envisaged that the Gallery will reopen in its entirety to the public in 2016.
The major programme of works relating to the upgrade of the Fire and Security Systems at the Irish Museum of Modern Art in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham is expected to be concluded within the coming weeks. Meantime, the Irish Museum of Modern Art is continuing to mount exhibitions at its new galleries at the Royal Hospital and at the National Concert Hall in Earlsfort Terrace.
