Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2023
674. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on works (details supplied) under the small-scale capital works programme; the timeline for these works; when they are expected to conclude; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3309/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of library services, including the provision of library buildings, is primarily a matter for local authorities in their capacity as library authorities under the Local Government Act 2001. Accordingly, progress on the works in Ballaghaderreen Library, and the timeline for completing the project are, first and foremost, a matter for Roscommon County Council.
I am advised by Roscommon County Council that their original tender invitation of June 2022, seeking the services of a mechanical and electrical consultant for this project was unsuccessful, and required the Council to re-tender for this service. As a result, the project has now incurred a slight delay to the timeline originally anticipated. Roscommon County Council's second tender invitation has resulted in the appointment of consultants to design the final specifications for all works approved under my department's Small Scale Capital Work scheme at Ballaghaderreen Library. The consultants are leading a multidisciplinary team that includes a conservation expert, and are providing expert advice in line with the requirements of the Section 57 declaration. Roscommon County Council have advised my department that they intend to publish a tender invitation for the construction works in early February 2023. Subject to the appointment of a building contractor in Q1 2023, it is expected that all works will be concluded in Summer 2023.
In the meantime, Roscommon County Council has advised that the mobile library continues to provide a service in the town every Wednesday, and that they are also supporting visits to schools in the area.
