72. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the position regarding the work he is doing to ensure that all OPW owned buildings, structures and monuments are fully accessible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73608/26]

The Office of Public Works endeavours to prioiritise accessibilty across its owned buildings, structures and monuments a) as far as is practicable in the case of protected structures and b) in compliance with the Technical Guidance Documents of the Building Regulations in circumstances relating to accessibility of the modern estate.

New government department office buildings, garda stations, coast guard stations, cultural facilities and visitor centres are designed to Part M of the current building regulations across the OPW portfolio unless exemptions are in place.

In addition, existing buildings are modified on a phased basis in accordance with the terms set out in the OPW Universal Access Programme. This Programme targets access solutions for all OPW owned sites or leased buildings and facilities. Schedules of works typically involve site specific solutions which can consist of adjustments to entrance areas, easing of circulation routes by automation of doors, alterations to sanitary facilities and customer services areas. Access audits are undertaken by qualified personnel and lead to a solution informed by the end users and clients of the facility or service. Compliance with the Disability Act 2005 forms the basis of accessibility where a service is provided to the public. Co-designed solutions which involve all stakeholders are applied as far as possible and in consultation with experts from the Centre of Excellence Unit of the National Disability Authority. Significantly, accessibility solutions have evolved over the last number of years and with the commencement of hybrid work patterns across the civil service, more accommodation opportunities have presented themselves.

With regard to historic monuments the OPW welcomed over 13 million visitors to its heritage sites across the country in 2025. The organisation employs a direct-labour workforce of specialist stone masons, craft joiners, plasterers, painters and general operatives who are responsible for the maintenance of the heritage portfolio and the care of the buildings. The office also employs circa 400 expert guides who provide tours and information to visitors at 73 heritage sites nationwide. The OPW also works with communities, schools, heritage groups, sporting clubs, arts and culture organisations on a vast range of events and activities providing a diverse range of access to, and enjoyment of, the national heritage estate.

The national heritage estate is vast and there are a number of reasons why historic buildings and National Monuments or sites may not be accessible to the public including:

• The location of Historic building or monument in a third party’s private property where there is no recognised right-of-way for the public. Public access to such sites is by agreement with the landowner.  The OPW cannot instruct a property owner to provide public access. Provision of general open public access could give rise to damage to the site e.g. through anti-social behaviour.  If it is considered that general open access to a heritage site will pose a risk of damage to historic buildings or monuments access is limited by means of key-holding arrangements and access is carefully managed.

• Where Health and Safety considerations for members of the public cannot be appropriately mitigated or where the structure has been deemed unsafe for public access.

• Where conservation projects are ongoing the OP will often restrict access or close a site to the public. Where the National Monument or historic property is located on an island to which there is no public transport.

• In the event that a property or part of a heritage property is used or needed for Government Business.