Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
1391. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the up-to-date position with a construction project in County Kildare (details supplied); the expected opening date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2488/25]
View answerThe Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) is a strategic capital investment fund that is key to the delivery of Ireland's rural development policy, Our Rural Future.
Kildare County Council is the lead partner for the Shackleton Museum project. It has been awarded funding of just over €5.2 million under the RRDF. This project will transform the Athy Heritage Centre (former Town Hall) to become the Ernest Shackleton Museum, with Shackleton’s Cabin in place on site.
The Council has advised that the main building works, which include the glazed extension to the rear of the building and the renovation and upgrade of the existing building, are scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2025. This will then be followed by the necessary fit out. Preparation works relating to this are already underway off site and are scheduled to be completed by the end of May. The Council has further indicated that it expects the project to be opened during the Summer.
My officials will continue to engage with the County Council as to progress on the project.
