§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on progress made in restoring the Chamber at Stormont and other parts of the Parliament building damaged or destroyed by fire. [12919]
§ Mr. MossThe first priority, after the weatherproofing and salvage had been carried out, was to ensure that the Chamber was structurally sound. This was achieved by demolishing unstable masonry and repairing damaged roof structural steelwork. This was completed in October 1995. The condition of the structure continues to be monitored to establish when conditions have stabilised sufficiently to allow the commencement of the interior fit out of the Chamber. Work is well under way to restore80W those other areas of the building damaged by the fire and to refurbish the remainder of the building. The contract should be completed by spring 1997.