Simon Harris TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today (23 May 2015) has reminded all that Dublin Castle remains open for visitors today.

Speaking this morning, Minister Harris said: "I am delighted to confirm that my office, the OPW, continues to facilitate visitors to Dublin Castle today.  While  counts for two referendums are taking place in the Conference Centre, the Castle remains open to the public as usual.  Access to the Count Centre is  by ticket only but I am pleased to confirm that the Upper Yard will be open to the public and can facilitate up to 2,000 visitors.   Access to the Upper Yard will be marshalled for health and safety reasons and if the available space reaches capacity, my Office will then close access to the Yard".

Minister Harris concluded: "My Office, as always, facilitates many events in the Castle, and guided tours will take place and all the wonderful exhibitions currently on display will be welcoming visitors today. Dublin Castle is a hugely significant destination and has been witness to many historical events and I have no doubt that all visitors today will enjoy and appreciate the surroundings and the ambience".

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If you wish to interview Minister Harris please contact Colette Davis, OPW Press Officer – mobile 087 947 5552 or email colette.davis@opw.ie

Notes to Editors:

Access to the Count Centre is restricted to ticket holders.  The Upper Yard will have facilities in place for the public to hear the declaration of the results.  Results from constituencies will be published on www.referendum.ie through the day.

All instructions of OPW staff on site must be followed.

Dublin Castle is situated in the very heart of Dublin City, on the south side of the River Liffey, off Dame Street, en route from Trinity College to Christchurch Cathedral.

There are a number of public car parks nearby.  The nearest are Parkrite and Q-Park.

Dublin Bus routes No.'s 77a, 56a and 49.  For further information on Dublin Bus services on www.dublinbus.ie