Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2018
179. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the process for approving a Government-supported as opposed to commercial event in the Phoenix Park which incurs a cost on the public purse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22515/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraApproval for the use of the Phoenix Park depends on the circumstances of each case including the nature and scale of the event. In the case of the Papal visit for example, Pope Francis will visit Ireland in August for the World Meeting of Families, which will conclude with a public Mass in the Phoenix Park, where large numbers are expected to attend.
The Church wrote formally to the Office of Public Works seeking the use of the Phoenix Park and the State has committed to facilitating the event in particular where the security, safety and wellbeing of those attending is concerned.
As with any other large public event in the Park this event has to comply with the Local Government Planning legislation that governs such outdoor events.
