As the Deputy is aware, in February 2020, Storm Ciara caused the collapse of the lower section of the wall of the North East tower of Carlow Castle. Subsequent investigations led to the discovery that the base of the collapse was constructed on clay foundations; this had major consequences for the safe repair and reconstruction of this section of wall.
On a site visit to Carlow Castle earlier this year, the Deputy was briefed in relation to the stabilisation and conservation works that have already been undertaken by the OPW. At this stage, a number of further structural investigations and surveys are required and are being arranged to determine the structural integrity of the Castle and what further works, if any, are required into the future.