Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
241. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the costs incurred by the Office of Public Works in completing the scaffolding enabling investigative and entablature repairs works to the Four Courts dome that was completed by the end of July 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42029/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works has undertaken an extensive programme of investigation, assessment and repairs to the Four Courts dome structure, including the dome, the decorative and supporting stone entablature and the capitals. It was necessary to have appropriate scaffolding in place to facilitate access, investigation, testing, analysis, assessment and for undertaking works safely both internally and externally. The programme of works to the Four Courts dome includes:
- Repair/replacement of metal framing and fixing for the lathe and plaster dome ceiling
- Examination of the concrete dome and carry out necessary remediation work
- New lining to gutter at the base of the dome
- Installation of health and safety access system to dome gutters (incl fall arrest system) for future maintenance
- Replacement of lightning protection
- Assessment and repairs to entablature stonework
- Investigate, repair and/or replacement of stone capitals
- Investigate, assess and repair/replace the steel angle to circumference immediately over the capitals
The external scaffolding, that facilitated these works, is scheduled to be fully dismantled by end September 2021.
The total sum of expenditure, to date, on these works is €5,249,233.
Arising from the investigation and assessment works that have been undertaken, preparation of plans is underway in respect of proposed further works mainly on the stone capitals and steel angle to circumference.
