The glass dome of the Ukrainian parliament is at risk of collapse

Kyiv - Panic among Ukrainian lawmakers was triggered today by news that the thirty-ton glass dome in the ceiling of the main chamber is in a state of emergency and could collapse on the heads of the lawmakers. According to information from MP Serhiy Sas, the iron structure on which the dome rests has deteriorated.
In addition to the lavish glass dome, an enormous fifteen-ton chandelier that illuminates the main chamber of the unicameral parliament could also fall on the lawmakers. "Recently, there hasn't been enough money for the maintenance of the dome and chandelier, nor for their repairs. We must hope that the technical management of the parliamentary building at least knows about the emergency condition," commented MP Sas.
The total area of the glass dome is 500 square meters, writes the newspaper Ukrayinska Pravda. The weight of the structure is particularly influenced by the fact that the glass filling exposed to weather conditions must be at least one centimeter thick. The opposition is particularly demanding a review of the dilapidated structure, while government MPs warn against panic and accuse opposition partners of seeking to "cut out" from parliamentary debates by spreading alarmist news.
The Ukrainian parliament held its last session today before the October elections. As the voting date approaches, general nervousness and mutual attacks among lawmakers are rising, which have previously led to dramatic scuffles. Last year in the chamber, the parliamentary security service repeatedly intervened, and ambulances were called several times for lawmakers injured during "discussions."
The head of the parliament, Volodymyr Lytvyn, assured the lawmakers today that the condition of the dome is not in an emergency state and that there is no danger to the lawmakers from this side. According to him, the chamber was last repaired in 2004. Although the review of the supporting structure did reveal some defects, summoned experts were able to resolve them with the help of climbers.
The building that currently houses the Ukrainian parliament was constructed between 1936-39. Experts consider it one of the valuable examples of Ukrainian architecture from the Soviet period.