asked the Minister for Finance whether in the event of the Royal Irish Automobile Club holding a racing fixture in the Phoenix Park during the coming summer, it is his intention to allow the club the exclusive use of the Park while the races are being held, or whether he will arrange that citizens and others not interested in motor racing can have access to the Zoological and People's Gardens during the race times, without having to pay a charge for entering the Park.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Motor Races in Phoenix Park.
The suggestion in the question is not practicable. The difficulty caused by the persons who have a right of free admission to the Park through residence or occupation is considerable, but it would clearly be impracticable to admit everyone who said he was going to the Zoological Gardens or the People's Gardens.
Mr. Murphy
Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider the propriety of suggesting to the organisers of the races to make some contribution to the funds of the Zoological Society to compensate them for their loss of revenue during the race days?
Mr. Bourke
The Zoological Society should themselves make representations to the Irish Automobile Club.
Under what Act has the Board of Works power to close the Phoenix Park?
Mr. Bourke
We have got ample powers.
Under what Act?
Under the Act of 1925.