asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to prevent the decay of the following ancient monuments in Co. Cork: "Britway Church,""Castleyons Abbey," and "Ballybeg Abbey," Buttevant.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ancient Monuments.
Mr. Bourke
The Commissioners of Public Works are not responsible for the maintenance of the monuments mentioned as they have not been vested in them or placed in their guardianship under the National Monuments Acts. The Commissioners have agreed to accept the guardianship of the ruins of Ballybeg Abbey, but the preparation of the deed of guardianship is held up pending the registration of the title of the present owner. The other monuments will be considered under the National Monuments Act, 1930.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that Castleyons Abbey was founded about 1307 and belonged to the Dominican Order, that the graves of many members of the community attached to the Abbey are there and that Britway Church was established in the fifth century? The people are very anxious that these ancient ruins should not be allowed to go to destruction and would the Parliamentary Secretary do everything possible to expedite the protection of those abbeys and churches?
Mr. Bourke
All these things will be considered at the proper time.