Office of Public Works

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 October 2022

Wednesday, 5 October 2022

Ceisteanna (122)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Ceist:

122. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 275 of 22 March 2022, when works will resume at a facility (details supplied) in County Cork under the ownership of the OPW; if he will provide a clear timeline as to when works will be completed; if there will be public access to the structure itself when the works will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48672/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Patrick O'Donovan)

Minor works are being undertaken within the interior of Conna Castle and the Office of Public Works envisages that these works will be complete by the end of the year.

In 2019, a significant project was undertaken which involved the installation of a temporary timber lintel and corbels to the upper battlements of the castle. This temporary measure was required to secure a particular section of the battlements that had become vulnerable to stone loss. The next phase of works for Conna includes the replacement of these temporary works with stone which is currently being sourced.

In the interim, the OPW is happy to create opportunities for the local community to view, under certain conditions, the progress made at Conna Castle so far. My officials will engage with local contacts in this regard to make suitable arrangements.