Seán Sherlock
Ceist:378. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of operations at a location (details supplied). [20055/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 30 July 2020
Ceisteanna (378)
Freagraí scríofa
Barryscourt Castle was discovered in recent years to have significant problems with damp penetration which caused the internal electrical system to become inherently unsafe and, as a result, the visitor experience at the Castle had to be closed while extensive rehabilitation works were put in place.
The works project which has been ongoing since involves progressively drying the entire Castle structure and repointing all of the external walls to prevent future water ingress. This work has proved to be technically very challenging and has taken longer than was originally expected due to the discovery of additional works which needed to be performed last year to chimneys and roofs. The restrictions associated with COVID-19 imposed early this season have also had a serious impact on progress on the works. However, the OPW workforce is now back on site and it is envisaged that the work on the south and east elevations can be completed next year, unless a further issue is discovered, during 2021. It is planned, once the external work is completed, that the building will be rewired internally and a new heating system installed, clearing the way for a reopening to the public. Every effort is being made to expedite the works which can only be undertaken in sequence. It is not possible at this time to give a precise date for reopening to the public.