The Government may be legally forced to build and fund the operation of a new national science museum for children, potentially costing tens of millions of euro, after losing a key legal battle with the consortium chosen to oversee the project.
The consortium’s board includes several high-profile legal and businesspeople, including Ali Hewson, who is married to U2 frontman Bono. The original cost of the scheme back in 2007 was put at €37 million, with the State providing the building, part of the fit-out cost and a portion of running costs, but construction inflation is likely to have pushed the cost higher.
The OPW said it would consider the arbitrator’s findings and engage further with the Irish Children’s Museum Ltd and all other parties involved in the process.