Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
464. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide the dwellings and habitable structures in the ownership of the Office of Public Works in the Phoenix Park, in tabular form; if he will identify whether those dwellings or habitable structures are currently occupied; the basis under which they are allocated; any rent received; and the basis for same. [43612/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by my officials that there are 41 lodges/properties in the Phoenix Park. These properties are primarily allocated to staff in specific posts where there is a requirement for officials to be present on the ground as part of their employment.
Lodges like those in the Phoenix Park are considered intrinsic to the historic estates, parks and gardens in the care of the OPW and are retained for State use. A number of these properties are located within secure areas of the Park e.g. Aras an Uachtarain and as such are not accessible to members of the public.
The OPW has provided to the Deputy, a more general overview of occupancy of lodges in the Phoenix Park, so as to protect both the privacy of individual residents/employees and to avoid potential security issues arising from highlighting individual properties that may be vacant.
Of the 41 lodges in the Phoenix Park, there are 8 currently vacant primarily due to their poor condition and/or location which makes them unsuitable for modern occupation.
In 2021 rent from the lodges in the Phoenix Park generated an income of €53,830 for the exchequer.
There is an ongoing programme to refurbish a number of lodges on a phased basis, subject to resources.
