The Office of Public Works (OPW) 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 programme 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.
Universal access works at Dun Laoghaire Garda Station is the only example of an OPW funded capital project completed by Estate Management in the last five years in the area.
Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites. These works include structural repairs, preservation of architectural features, and enhancement of visitor facilities. The OPW’s efforts ensure that heritage assets are protected and accessible, supporting both cultural preservation and regional tourism.
Flood Risk Management is another core pillar, with the OPW leading the planning and delivery of flood relief schemes in conjunction with the local authorities. The OPW is working in partnership with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to advance major flood relief schemes and related works. Notable efforts include the Deansgrange Flood Relief Scheme. 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 Flood Risk Management County Summary provides updates and can be viewed at the following link by selecting Dublin: www.floodinfo.ie/county-summary/.
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.
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Year
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Project Name ( Capital works over €0.2m 2021 to 2025)
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Status
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Delivered in line with Budget and timeline
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2023
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Garda Station Dun Laoghaire - Universal Access
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Complete
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Yes
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