Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Written Answers Nos. 481-500

• Díospóireachtaí
• Aimsigh díospóireacht
  • Díospóireachtaí na Dála
  • Díospóireachtaí an tSeanaid
  • Díospóireachtaí Coiste
• Aimsigh vótáil
  • Vótálacha na Dála
  • Vótálacha an tSeanaid
  • Vótálacha Coiste
• Ceisteanna Parlaiminte
  • Ceisteanna scríofa
  • Ceisteanna ó bhéal
• Leideanna cuardaigh
• Nuair a bhíonn tionchar tromchúiseach ag aithrisí

Public Procurement Contracts

Ceisteanna (481, 486)

Barry Heneghan

Ceist:

481. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether his Department has undertaken a review of public procurement and contract management frameworks in relation to cost overruns and delays on publicly funded projects; whether a contractor performance assessment system exists to support contracting authorities in evaluating delivery performance across projects; whether enhancements to such systems are under consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34045/26]

Barry Heneghan

Ceist:

486. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the current framework in place for public procurement and contract management in respect of publicly funded projects; whether any reviews or reforms are underway to address cost overruns and project delays; whether a contractor performance assessment system exists or is under consideration to support contracting authorities in evaluating delivery performance in future tenders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34250/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

I propose to take Questions Nos. 481 and 486 together.

My department has responsibility for public procurement policy and sets the overarching policy framework for public procurement in Ireland. This enables a more consistent approach to public procurement across the public sector. My department also has responsibility for the management of the Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF) which encapsulates all aspects of public works delivery from inception through to completion and review.  It does this by means of a comprehensive suite of guidance, including best practice project management, cost control, design development as well as providing a suite of template tender documents and contracts. The structure of this strategic framework is closely aligned with and complements the Infrastructure Guidelines developed by my department.

A review of the policies and practices deployed in the procurement of public works projects commenced in March 2019 and is ongoing. The focus of the review is on improving the delivery of construction projects in terms of quality, timely delivery and cost outcomes.  The review has and will continue to deliver significant changes to the CWMF over the coming years. The review process involves extensive engagement, both with industry stakeholders, and with the public bodies charged with the delivery of public works projects on a broad range of issues, including risk management and performance evaluation. These reform processes will lead to meaningful policy change and will assist in delivering better value for money for the taxpayer in the implementation of Project Ireland 2040. Reform of procurement is specifically called out under Action 25 of the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan.  

The CWMF provides detailed and comprehensive guidance, supported by formal training and supporting materials, on the assessment of contractor performance. This includes standardised procedures, clear evaluation criteria, and structured reporting mechanisms to ensure consistency and objectivity in performance assessments across projects. The Framework also sets out roles, responsibilities, and governance arrangements to support contracting authorities in undertaking robust and transparent evaluations, with a focus on capturing lessons learned and informing future procurement decisions.

The management of the tendering process for a public contract including the application of certain exclusion grounds and selection criteria is a matter for each contracting authority.  It is the responsibility of each contracting authority to ensure that tenderers comply with all the requirements of the process. There are several elements already present in CWMF contracts that provide contracting authorities with the ability to manage poor performance. A consistent contract management regime is critical, and clearly defined milestones should be set down for evaluation purposes. The public works contracts require payment to be made monthly for work completed to the standard specified in the contract.  Where the works completed do not meet the required standard, the value of the defective work may be deducted from the payment due until the matter is rectified. Many of the larger projects also carry performance bonds which may be called upon in the event of a breach of contract.  Persistent failure to comply with an instruction under the contract is a breach and may result in the bond being called upon to pay for the work necessary to make good a defect. 

National Development Plan

Ceisteanna (482)

Grace Boland

Ceist:

482. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Fingal in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34050/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

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 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.

With regard to capital projects completed by Estate Management in the last five years in the Fingal West area, some examples are, Entrance refurbishment at Passport Office Balbriggan and roof works at Oberstown in Lusk. Please find list attached in tabular form as requested.

Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites such as Lusk Round Tower and Belfry. 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 Fingal County Council to advance flood relief schemes and related costal protection works. A notable example is the €622,703 funding approval earlier this year for emergency works at The Burrow Beach, Portrane.  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:   https://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.

Year	Project Name ( Capital works over €0.2m)	Status	Delivered in line with Budget and timeline
2023	Oberstown Detention Centre, Lusk, Co Dublin (IYJS) - Repair works to roofs	Complete	Yes
2024	Courts Service, Balbriggan Co. Dublin - Roofworks	Completed	Yes - Final Project Account stage
2024	Courts Service, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin - Window Refurbishment	Completed	Yes - Final Project Account stage
2024	Courts Service, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin- Structural Works	Completed	Yes - Final Project Account Stage
2025	Balbriggan Passpost Office - New Entrance Canopy & internal secure lobby	Complete	Yes

 

Question No. 483 answered with Question No. 480.

National Development Plan

Ceisteanna (484)

Micheál Carrigy

Ceist:

484. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Longford in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34077/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

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 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.

Significant capital projects completed by Estate Management in the last five years in the Longford  area include Longford Garda Station Refurbishment and Cell extension completed in 2024.  

Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites such as Corlea Trackway. 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 Longford County Council to advance flood relief schemes and related works. 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 Longford:   https://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.

Question Heading for question(s) 485

Ceisteanna (485)

Michael Cahill

Ceist:

485. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34246/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

I thank the Deputy for his query and for bringing the correspondence from his constituent to my attention.

Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most significant ecclesiastical and historical sites. To ensure it continues to meet international visitor standards and conserve its heritage for future generations, a major redevelopment project commenced in April 2026. This significant project is being delivered through a strategic partnership between the Office of Public Works, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and Fáilte Ireland under the EU Just Transition Fund.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is committed to maintaining public access to the monastic site throughout the construction phase. However, as with any project of this scale, which includes a new extension, refurbishment of the visitor centre, and enhanced parking facilities, some operational disruption is unavoidable. To manage this and to ensure the public are aware of the restrictions on site, the OPW has clearly communicated the level of site access on the Heritage Ireland website so indivduals and tour groups can plan their visit.

In recognition of the fact that the indoor exhibition and audio-visual elements are temporarily unavailable, a reduced admission fee has been introduced for the 2026 season. Furthermore, while the main building is inaccessible, the OPW continues to provide guided tours of the monastic enclosure and graveyard to maintain the high standard of storytelling for which the site is known. Public toilets and a coffee cart are also available on site.

I regret that the constituent felt the site did not meet their expectations on this occasion. However, these essential works under the Just Transition programme are vital to the long-term sustainability of tourism in the Midlands. The OPW will continue to monitor the site to ensure that the balance between essential redevelopment and the visitor experience is maintained as effectively as possible.

Question No. 486 answered with Question No. 481.

State Properties

Ceisteanna (487, 488)

Liam Quaide

Ceist:

487. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation further to Parliamentary Question No.425 of 4 February 2026, if he will provide a further update on the accessibility of Dublin Castle grounds during the EU presidency; when restrictions will begin and end, specifically if the public will be able to enter grounds of the Castle via Palace Street, and walk to the Dubh Linn Gardens; if the Chester Beatty library will remain accessible from this route or via the entrance on Ship Street; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34291/26]

Liam Quaide

Ceist:

488. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation further to Parliamentary Question No.426 of 4 February 2026, if he will provide a further update on the duration of construction works at the 'Castle steps' beside Dublin Castle, leading from Ship Street to Castle Street; when they will be complete; if this passage will be open to the public during the EU presidency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34292/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

I propose to take Questions Nos. 487 and 488 together.

Dublin Castle is the primary State venue for events during Ireland’s forthcoming Presidency of the EU with more than one hundred events taking place including conferences, meetings, dinners, cultural events and receptions.

A total of five venues across the Castle campus will host meetings and dinners including St. Patricks Hall, George’s Hall, the Printworks Conference Centre, the Hibernia Conference Centre and the Chester Beatty Library. There will be a media centre located in the former Werburgh Street labour exchange.

In order to finalise preparations for Ireland’s hosting of the Presidency, the State Apartments at Dublin Castle closed to the public from Tuesday 5 May. The Dublin Castle steps are also closed, to allow completion of essential repair works to the brick building adjacent to the bottom of the steps. These are at an advanced stage and will be completed shortly.

The wider Dublin Castle campus remains accessible to the public at present, including the Chester Beatty Library, the Dubh Linn gardens and the census exhibition in the Coach House Gallery. The public is advised to check our websites and social media channels for updates on access arrangements at Dublin Castle during May and June 2026.

From mid-June 2026 for the six-month duration of the Presidency, the Dublin Castle campus will close the public in its entirety. There will be no public access, in particular, there will be no through access from Dame Street (Palace Street Gate) to Ship Street for the duration.

Question No. 488 answered with Question No. 487.

Flood Relief Schemes

Ceisteanna (489)

Noel McCarthy

Ceist:

489. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 269 and 270 of 30 April 2026, to outline separately the current cost of the Midleton Flood Relief Project in addition to the cost of the East Cork Individual Property Protection Scheme; if it is envisaged that the cost of the Midleton Flood Relief Project is likely to increase before works completion and handover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34314/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

Funding for the Midleton Flood Relief Scheme is part of the Government’s commitment to deliver flood relief measures over the lifetime of the National Development Plan.

The current total project budget for the Midleton Flood Relief Scheme is estimated at some €50 million. This is based on a preliminary design. The budget for all flood relief schemes is updated as the details of the scheme's design evolves and progresses to construction. The total expenditure to date on the scheme is some €6.8m.

As the design of the preferred option for the Midleton Flood Relief Scheme is due to be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála, by Cork County Council, in Q3 2026, a revised estimate of the total project budget is being undertaken. This is a requirement of the Infrastructure Guidelines and to inform an approval to proceed to planning by the Office of Public Works (OPW), as Approving Authority.

Funding of €5.8 million was approved in October 2024 by the OPW for the Midleton and East Cork Individual Property Protection (IPP) Scheme. The total expenditure to date on the IPP scheme is some €2m.

Civil Service

Ceisteanna (490)

Barry Ward

Ceist:

490. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the position regarding any mechanism in place within his Department that allows for civil servants to transfer on secondment to an equivalent role within the European Union, without negatively impacting their pension and other employment rights; his views on the merits of such a scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34428/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

There is currently no single, formalised mechanism across all Departments that provides for civil servants to transfer on secondment to equivalent roles within the institutions of the European Union while retaining full continuity of pension and all associated employment rights.

The Deputy will be aware that Irish civil servants may apply for opportunities within EU institutions through open competitions organised by the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) or via national expert secondment arrangements such as Seconded National Expert (SNE) roles. These arrangements are governed by EU rules and individual Departments, and may have varying implications for salary, pension accrual and other terms and conditions.

In general, civil servants who take up positions within EU institutions transition to the EU employment framework for the duration of their appointment. While certain protections and provisions may apply, full preservation of Irish public service pension arrangements is not typically automatic and depends on the nature of the assignment and the applicable schemes.

The SNE scheme and Attaché opportunities are the only current examples of secondment arrangements in which civil servants transferred from my Department to an equivalent role within the European Union, without impacting their pension and other employment rights.  Generally, when an individual is seconded to the EU via the SNE Scheme or as an Attaché, they remain a member of their existing Civil Service pension scheme and continue to accrue their pension entitlements in the scheme of which they are a member and are pensionable in their substantive grade i.e. the grade at which they were employed in the Civil Service. 

The Department recognises the value of experience within EU institutions in contributing to skills development, policy insight and strengthening Ireland's engagement at EU level. Existing arrangements, such as secondments and leave of absence, aim to support such mobility where feasible.

Civil Service

Ceisteanna (491)

Barry Ward

Ceist:

491. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the position regarding any mechanism in place within his Department that allows for civil servants to transfer an equivalent role within the European Union on a permanent basis, without negatively impacting their pension and other employment rights; his views on the merits of such a scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34446/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

The Civil Service provides for permanent mobility within the system through the Civil Service Mobility Scheme, which supports the transfer of civil servants to equivalent roles across Departments and Offices of the Irish Civil Service only.  

Where a civil servant wishes to take up a permanent appointment within the European Union, the Officer must resign from the Irish Civil Service, with future pension entitlements considered separately in accordance with the relevant pension arrangements.

Departmental Expenditure

Ceisteanna (492)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

492. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the position regarding any product or service purchased from Canada by his Department in 2025 broken down by description and amount paid. [34585/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department procured one service, which is used for data migration, from a company based in Canada in 2025. The value of the service was €10,253 inclusive of reverse charge VAT. 

National Development Plan

Ceisteanna (493)

John Paul O'Shea

Ceist:

493. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Cork North-West in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34720/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

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 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.

In recent months construction commenced on the new Garda Station for Macroom and in recent years the OPW completed the new National School in Kanturk.  With regard to significant capital projects completed by Estate Management in the last five years in the Cork North West area, the Coachford Garda Station is one example, reopened in June 2025.  

Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites such as Doneraile Court and Estate. 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 Cork County Council to advance flood relief schemes and related costal protection works.  In 2025 funding was provide to the County Council under the Minor Works scheme for both the Inchigeelagh and Ballingeary areas.   The Flood Risk Management County Summary provides updates and can be viewed at the following link by selecting Cork:   https://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.

Freedom of Information

Ceisteanna (494)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

494. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide an update on his plans for the reform of the FOI system; the progress that has been made on implementing the recommendations from the last FOI review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34890/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

A comprehensive review of the FOI regime has been undertaken and the compilation of its findings and recommendations is nearing completion.

The review commenced with a scoping exercise that sought the views of stakeholders across all sectors in setting the direction of the review. It then included a customer satisfaction survey as well as a full public consultation around the themes identified in the earlier stage. This was supplemented by engagement with key stakeholders and a review of international approaches to FOI, seeking to identify best practices and innovations globally.

Since the introduction of the updated legislation in 2014, there has been a large increase in FOI usage. As it stands, approximately four out of every five requests are granted, indicating that the system as a whole is working well. Reviews are available where a requester is dissatisfied with the outcome of their request, however, these are availed of in approximately 3% of cases annually. An independent review by the Information Commissioner is sought in just over 1% of cases. Key indicators remain consistent from year to year.

This does not mean that there is no room for improvement or that satisfaction levels are universally high across all aspects of the regime. The review has sought to identify opportunities to update the system and to deliver transparency in more effective and cost-efficient ways.

I expect to receive the report of the review in the coming weeks. In the event that amending legislation is required on foot of the report, this will be progressed together with other recommendations in due course.

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.

National Development Plan

Ceisteanna (495)

Joe Neville

Ceist:

495. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Kildare in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35010/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

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 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.

With regard to significant capital projects completed by Estate Management in the last five years in the Kildare area, the Athy GS - Cell Upgrade is one example.  Work is ongoing to deliver the Property Evidence & Material Store (PEMS) facility at Naas Garda Station. 

Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites such as Castletown House. 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 Kildare County Council to advance flood relief schemes.  Notable examples include the Morell River Flood Management Scheme currently under construction and the Naas Flood Relief Scheme.  These initiatives are supported by substantial Government investment, as reflected in the €6.6 million OPW funding recently announced 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 Kildare:   https://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.

Departmental Expenditure

Ceisteanna (496, 497, 498)

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

496. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the basis on which the current levy arising from public expenditure overruns is being calculated and applied to his Department’s Vote; whether any categories of expenditure, including pay, pensions or staffing-related costs, are exempt from the levy within his Department; and if he will provide a breakdown of the areas against which the levy is being applied. [35086/26]

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

497. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether the levy imposed on departmental expenditure arising from overruns is being applied uniformly across all Government Departments; whether any Departments have been permitted exemptions in respect of salaries, pensions or core staffing expenditure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35104/26]

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

498. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether his Department has been instructed that expenditure on salaries and pensions must form part of the departmental levy or savings measures arising from expenditure overruns; whether this requirement applies equally across all Departments and Offices; and if details will be provided of any Departments or Votes that have received exemptions or alternative arrangement [35122/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

I propose to take Questions Nos. 496, 497 and 498 together.

The Government agreed a Medium Term Fiscal Structural Plan in December last year. This set out expenditure ceilings for the period to 2030. It provides for significant uplifts in expenditure over the coming years, with gross voted spending to reach €147.3 billion in 2030. Delivery of the Medium Term Fiscal Structural Plan over the medium-term horizon will require enhanced expenditure control, avoidance of in-year decisions with carryover costs for subsequent years and robust oversight mechanisms.

In April, Government agreed that additional funding of €646 million will be provided to the Department of Education and Youth in 2026. It was further agreed that €446 million of this additional funding will be provided by way of a levy from 2027, calculated on the current expenditure REV 2026 allocations of Votes other than the Department of Education and Youth.

The levy supports adherence to the fixed expenditure ceilings set out in the Government’s Medium-Term Fiscal and Structural Plan. It reflects the need to moderate the rate of expenditure growth across other Departments to facilitate Government’s decision to reprioritise and provide additional investment to the Education sector within the agreed overall fiscal framework.

The distribution of the levy across Departments has been designed to protect certain areas including:

• Social Protection Vote Group non-pay allocation;

• Department of Health pay allocation;

• Specialist Disability Services subhead in the Department of Children, Disability and Equality;

• Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Group pay;

• Housing, Local Government and Heritage Group non-pay and

• Pension funding across Votes. 

It is a matter for each Department to determine how the levy will be applied across the Vote Group and identify the efficiencies and reforms required to ensure this. My own Department will also be undertaking this process in accordance with the requirements. The levy has an impact of between 0.02 per cent and 1.4 per cent on current expenditure funding across relevant Votes.  My Department wrote to Secretaries General of the relevant Departments following the Government decision, informing them of the need to identify efficiencies and reforms and that this would form a key element of the Estimates engagement for Budget 2027.

Question No. 497 answered with Question No. 496.

Question No. 498 answered with Question No. 496.

Office of Public Works

Ceisteanna (499)

Paul Lawless

Ceist:

499. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether the Office of Public Works (OPW) has been requested to assess or assist with the repair and stabilisation of the Peace Park in Balla, County Mayo, given its historical, commemorative, and veterans' significance; and the role, if any, the OPW could play in supporting this project. [35304/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation

The Office of Public Works has no role in relation to the repair and stabilisation of the Peace Park in Balla, County Mayo. I suggest that the local authority, Mayo County Council, or relevant local community groups may be better placed to assist.

Departmental Bodies

Ceisteanna (500)

Brian Brennan

Ceist:

500. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will provide a list of all capital projects and programmes including those delivered through IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Fáilte Ireland which have been completed on time and within budget in the Wicklow Wexford constituency in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33964/26]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment

It has not been possible to compile the requested information from the relevant State Agencies in the time available. The requested information will be forwarded directly to the Deputy once compiled.

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Orders.

Please see deferred response attached

PQ 33964-26

• Written Answers Nos. 461-480
• Written Answers Nos. 501-522