PAC demands urgent government action on stalled science centre
The Committee of Public Accounts has issued an interim report demanding immediate cross-Government intervention regarding the National Children's Science Centre. The inquiry highlights two decades of unresolved governance and funding risks as the State remains legally bound to the project.
PAC Calls for Urgent Action on Stalled Science Centre
The Committee of Public Accounts (PAC) has published a critical interim report regarding the National Children's Science Centre, urging immediate cross-Government action to address chronic governance and funding failures.
Published on Thursday, July 16th, 2026, the report reveals that the project has stalled for over twenty years without a sponsoring Department, an approved business case, or a confirmed funding source. Despite these significant oversights, the State remains legally obligated to proceed with key elements of the initiative.
In May 2024, the Office of Public Works (OPW) estimated construction costs at €70.4 million. This figure excludes approximately €19 million for exhibition and planetarium fit-outs and an additional €30 million in projected Government support over ten years for operations and renewal. To date, more than €4.27 million has been expended on legal fees, consultancy, and surveys, with further bills pending finalisation.
The Committee emphasises that the project has advanced without standard safeguards for major public capital developments, exposing the Exchequer to substantial legal and financial risk. Deputy John Brady, Cathaoirleach of the Committee, stated: "Our interim report reflects a project that has remained unresolved for more than 20 years, without clear Government ownership, without an approved business case and without an agreed funding route. That is not a satisfactory position for any major public project, particularly one that continues to carry legal and financial implications for the State."
Brady further noted that while arbitration decisions require the OPW to continue procurement preparations, the Committee is deeply concerned by continued expenditure on technical consultants despite unresolved operational questions. The report criticises the absence of a comprehensive business case demonstrating value for money or long-term viability.
Key Recommendations
The Committee has outlined several urgent measures:
- Political Intervention: An immediate decision at an appropriate Government level on whether to proceed or conclude commitments in the public interest.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Prompt collaboration between the OPW, the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, and other relevant bodies to identify a viable path forward.
- Expenditure Review: An immediate halt to further spending without an agreed overall Government strategy.
- Comprehensive Assessment: A full evaluation of governance, costs, long-term funding, operational models, and value for money before committing additional resources.
- Progress Update: A report back to the Committee within three months of publication.