Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
650. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development to provide an update on works at a building (details supplied); when it will reopen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46223/23]
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.
In response to Parliamentary Question (ref 18989/23) in April this year, I stated that Roscommon County Council published a tender in June 2022 seeking the services of a mechanical and electrical consultants for the project. This tender was successful, and consultants were appointed in September 2022. The consultants are leading a multidisciplinary team that includes a conservation expert, and are providing expert advice in line with the requirements of a Section 57 Declaration under the Planning and Development Act, 2000. In their assessment of the project, the consultants identified additional works required on the heating system. These works will involve the replacement of the existing out-dated heating system, with a new energy-efficient system, and enhancement to the insulation fabric of the building.
I am advised by Roscommon County Council that the consultant conservation architects provided stage 2a/2b pre-tender documents to their client, Roscommon County Council on September 7th last. Following their review of these pre-tender documents, Roscommon County Council reverted to the consultants on September 21st last, to raise queries relating to the Architectural and to the Mechanical & Electrical M&E) documents. Roscommon County Council have informed my Department that both parties are working through the queries raised and are confident that all issues identified can be resolved. Roscommon County Council have confirmed that the invitation to tender will be published before Christmas.
Roscommon County Council have advised that pending a successful tender invitation and the appointment of a building contractor in early 2024, the proposed works are identified as requiring 32 weeks to complete, which will result in the project being completed in late summer/autumn 2024, with the library at Dillon House to re-open in Q3 2024.
As a result of the delays to this project, Roscommon County Council has further advised that they have entered into an agreement to lease the former Tusla office located in Ballaghaderreen. Once the Part 8 Planning Process in relation to the change of use of this office to a library is concluded, Roscommon County Council will immediately move in and operate the library from these premises. Roscommon County Council have also confirmed that they will temporarily operate the library from this building for the remaining duration of the works to Dillon House.
Furthermore, Roscommon County Council have advised that they currently provide a weekly mobile library service in Ballaghaderreen, alongside services to local schools and preschools and attendance at community events. Once the temporary library is operating, the weekly mobile service will no longer be provided in Ballaghaderreen, and this will enable the mobile library to return to providing mobile library services, including more visits to schools in its overall operational area.
My department continues to engage with the Council to ensure that library services are maintained as far as possible in Ballaghaderreen and surrounding areas.
