Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2019
240. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will clarify with the OPW when the original gates will be returned to the entrances to the Phoenix Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19575/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn preparation for the Mass for the World Meeting of Families 2018 in the Phoenix Park, a number of historic Park gates were removed for health and safety reasons to ensure the safe and free movement of people attending the Mass. As part of the project plan for the temporary removal and reinstatement of the gates, under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, the Office of Public Works is required to undertake conservation work at a number of the entrances.
This is a very significant conservation project and the work is highly complex. It is not possible at this stage to provide a definitive completion date for the works including the reinstatement of the original gates. Significant work will commence during 2019, largely off site, on the conservation of the original gates, features, etc. Progress updates will be made available to the public as the project advances on the Phoenix Park website www.phoenixpark.ie and on OPW social media pages.
