Office of Public Works

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023

Tuesday, 26 September 2023

Questions (207)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

207. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the date on which OPW and or a contractor engaged by them inspected the mature trees at the Kildare Street gate entrance and Merrion side of Leinster House; if it has been established whether the trees are in a stable condition and are disease-free; and if there are future plans to inspect the trees in the context of their long-term preservation. [41315/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform

The trees to the Kildare Street and Merrion Square sides of the Leinster House complex are an integral and valued part of the site layout and design. The OPW has carried out inspections, by qualified arborists, of all trees on the site in 2005, 2008, 2013 and 2018. More recently, a five year survey was commissioned in 2020 with reviews each year through to 2025.

Following Storm Betty this summer, report No. 3 was carried out in August 2023 and some minor works were highlighted including removal of deadwood.

The Ash trees on the Merrion Square side are in decline due to Ash dieback and other fruiting fungal bodies. The four London Planes on the Kildare Street side have a slight leaf infection. Tree works will be carried out over the winter period as per the independent Arborist’s report. It is the intention of OPW to maintain and preserve all trees on the complex for as long as possible.