Martin Cullen – Minister for OPW was on the radio the other day regarding improvements to Leinster House and its environs. Chief among these is the removal of cars from both the front and rear entrances of Leinster House and the reinstatement of gardens at both sides. A new underground car park will be constructed. No idea about timeframe but I would imagine you wont see anything happen until after the election.
I wonder will they ask for the statue of Queen Vic to be returned to the plinth? hehe. I think she is well suited to her current spot in Sydney.
Fortunate enough to have a tour of Leinster House recently. The usher told us that the removal of the Lawn was one of his big regrets about the complex (and if any of you have been inside its all pretty grotty and lack-lusture – purple and blue carpets anyone). He said that the carpark was to stay. The plan to develop an underground carpark has been scrapped as too costly and the tarmac will be a permanent monument to the power of the motorcar.
Meanwhile on the other side…. what do you all think of the new welcome pavillion at Kildare Street.