The Office of Public Works is a key service provider to Government, managing the State's estate portfolio, maintaining and presenting Ireland's built heritage, and leading the State's flood risk management function. Under the current National Development Plan, the OPW has secured a record allocation of €1.845 billion, encompassing flood risk management, State property management, and the conservation of heritage assets in support of regional tourism. The OPW's capital programmes is therefore one of the most geographically distributed and functionally diverse in the public service, with works delivered in every county.
Under Estate Management, the OPW is responsible for the maintenance, refurbishment, and development of government properties, including offices, Garda stations, and other public service buildings. This includes energy efficiency upgrades and compliance with health and safety and climate obligations. New construction and fit-outs are also undertaken to meet evolving service needs, alongside property acquisitions and disposals as required.
Across the OPW estate ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure that public assets remain safe, functional, and efficient. Regular maintenance activities often identify areas where more substantial interventions are needed, leading to planned preventative capital works. These projects are designed to proactively address emerging issues, extend the lifespan of assets, and optimise their performance. By integrating insights from ongoing maintenance into capital planning, the OPW ensures that resources are used effectively and future risks are minimised.
The OPW’s capital investment in County Carlow encompasses the three core pillars: Estate Management, Heritage Services, and Flood Risk Management. Under Estate Management the Capital projects in excess of €200,000 completed by Estate Management in Carlow in the last five years include facilities upgrades at Carlow Garda Station.
Through Heritage Services, the OPW has carried out conservation-led capital works to protect and present nationally significant sites in State care within Carlow, such as Altmont Gardens. These works include structural conservation and repairs, improvements to visitor infrastructure, and enhanced interpretation and presentation. Examples of significant capital projects in this area include the waste water enhancement works at Altmont Gardens completed 5 years ago.
Flood Risk Management remains a central focus, with the OPW working in partnership with Carlow County Council to advance major flood relief schemes and related works. Notable efforts include the Carlow Flood Relief Scheme and other projects at at-risk locations. These initiatives are supported by substantial Government investment, as reflected in the €6.6 million OPW funding announced last week for local authorities to deliver interim flood measures. The OPW has awarded a contract to produce a Scheme Climate Change Adaptation Plan (SCCAP) for the existing Carlow Flood Relief Scheme.
Should you, Deputy, have a particular capital project in mind or wish to discuss any aspect of our planned preventative works in greater detail, I would welcome the opportunity to engage directly. Please feel free to contact me so we can address your specific interests and ensure your concerns are fully considered.
