Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
264. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his plans for the Office of Public Works to acquire the Martello Tower at Sandymount, Dublin; and if he will report on assessments commissioned by or for his Department, in concert with the OPW, in respect of same. [32788/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works has responsibility for the care, management and presentation of a large portfolio of heritage sites across the State. These include many of Ireland’s most significant National Monuments, currently numbering approximately 780 sites nationwide, which are under the ownership of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. It is important to note that the OPW does not have a general role in acquiring heritage properties, rather, it is responsible for the conservation, maintenance and presentation of the national heritage estate in its care.
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage is a relevant decision-maker when the State is considering a property or monument for acquisition by the State.
Acquisitions are considered on a case-by-case basis, having regard to a range of factors including its heritage significance, strategic fit within the existing portfolio, public access potential, and the availability of resources to conserve and manage the site into the future.
In addition, local authorities are often best placed to bring forward proposals for the reuse and regeneration of heritage buildings where there is a clear community or civic function identified. In that regard, any future proposal for the Martello Tower at Sandymount Strand may be more appropriately considered at local authority level, in this instance Dublin City Council, potentially in partnership with other stakeholders.
While the OPW fully acknowledges the heritage significance of the Martello Tower at Sandymount Strand, I can confirm that the OPW has no plans to acquire the building and has not undertaken or commissioned any assessments of the property.
