AQO 3798/22-27 Oral question to the Assembly Commission
To ask the Assembly Commission for an update on repairs to the roof of Parliament Buildings.
Asked by Andrew McMurray MLA on 11 June 2026
- Answered
- Oral
- Answered in the Chamber
- Tabled
- 11 June 2026
- Answer due by
- 23 June 2026
- Answered
- 23 June 202612 days after tabling
- Department
- Northern Ireland Assembly Commission
- Priority question
- No
Answer
Answered in the Assembly Chamber on 23 June 2026. Extract from the Official Report (Hansard), including any supplementary questions:
Miss McAllister
I thank the Member for his question. The Assembly Commission is progressing a programme of remedial works to address defects identified in the roof of Parliament Buildings and to protect the long-term integrity of this grade A listed building. The works have been structured in two phases. Phase 1 focuses on priority health and safety works, including repairs to the rear parapet and internal courtyards, where scaffolding is currently in place. A contractor has been appointed and works are under way, with completion expected by the end of August 2026. Phase 2 will address wider water ingress issues across the remainder of the roof. That phase will include detailed investigations, the development of options and the appointment of an integrated consultancy team to inform the full scope of works. Subject to the outcome of those investigations, a full programme of works will be developed to address the remaining issues.
Mr McMurray
I thank the Member for the answer. Has any additional damage been identified during the current works?
Miss McAllister
The Assembly Commission recognises that the issue has been a long and protracted one. Thankfully, the extent of the deterioration in courtyards 1, 2 and 3 is less significant than initially anticipated. However, early investigations have identified some additional complexities, including localised stone deterioration and issues in courtyard 8. Those are being carefully managed, and, where necessary, interim works may be brought forward to address any emerging risks. We recognise that the issue is long-standing and ongoing, but we are processing it and ensuring that the works are being done as quickly as possible.