Noonan: Worn carpets account for some of Government's rise in maintenance bill

The Finance Minister Michael Noonan says one of the reasons for a big increase in the maintenance budget for Government Buildings is the replacement of carpets because of health and safety concerns.

Last year just under 400,000 was spent on maintenance, but the budget for this year is estimated to be 1.4m.

Upgrading the phone system from analogue to digital as well as re-plastering works are some of the reasons for the increase.

But Michael Noonan says carpet replacement is also required.

He said: "The next project is a major upgrading of our electrical systems so that we comply with business requirements and health and safety standards.

"This will be followed by plastering and painting to bring the accommodation to an acceptable standard.

"Walls have been significantly damaged with the recent work, under-investment and general maintenance in recent years means that worn carpets in particular on stairs present a specific health and safety risk and indeed a legal risk as well."

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Noonan: Worn carpets account for some of Government's rise in maintenance bill