asked the Minister for Transport and Power if it is a fact, as reported in the press, that the Electricity Supply Board are considering the demolition of several Georgian houses in Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin; and if he will ensure that the existing frontage of these houses is preserved if any alterations are made.

34.

asked the Minister for Transport and Power if any plans are contemplated for the removal of the Electricity Supply Board's offices in Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin, and to replace this very fine piece of Georgian architecture with a modernised building.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 33 and 34 together.

I have been informed by the E.S.B. that because of the structurally unsound condition of the buildings occupied by them in Lower Fitzwilliam Street, they have been considering their demolition and their replacement by a new building which would have due regard to the Georgian surroundings. I understand from the E.S.B. that various possibilities, including that of preserving the existing frontages, are still under consideration by them and it is not possible to make any further statement at present.

May we take it that, before any irrevocable decision is arrived at, this House will be informed in view of the fact that the street referred to constitutes an essential part of one of the finest Georgian facades in the world and should not be obliterated without the express authority of this House?

I have made it clear to the E.S.B. that this question goes beyond the ambit of their own particular activities. I have said they are considering the whole matter. The Deputy will appreciate the fact that there are views as to whether the existing frontage can be preserved and there is disagreement in regard to that. It is an extremely complicated question which must be considered in all its aspects.

May I take the Minister's reply as indicating that no irrevocable step will be taken in this matter unless and until the views of this House have been heard in view of the aesthetic considerations which are involved over and above the utilitarian purposes of the E.S.B.?

The E.S.B. will consider the matter in all its aspects.

Is the Minister in a position to give us any assurance that this unique architectural feature of our city will be preserved pending further reference to this House before any irrevocable step is taken? It would be disastrous if we saw the place pulled down while the House was not sitting.

The matter has not reached that point at all and there is really no need for me to say anything further.

Can the Minister not give a positive assurance that this House will be made aware of the circumstances before anything is done?

In actual fact this is a matter for the E.S.B. It is a matter of interest to Dublin Corporation and other parties. I could not say at what point, or whether, it will reach the House itself.