asked the Minister for Local Government if he received a request from Clonmel Corporation asking him to receive a deputation from the Corporation regarding his refusal to sanction the transfer of Clonmel Theatre to an industrialist who has set up an industry there; and if, in view of the fact that the doubtful situation regarding this sanction has delayed and inhibited plans for the expansion of this industry, he will receive this deputation at the earliest possible date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clonmel Industrial Project.
10.
I received a request from Clonmel Corporation to discuss their proposal to appropriate the Clonmel Theatre under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, with a view to disposing of it for industrial purposes. In view of the value of a municipal theatre to a town as large as Clonmel and its potential growth, I had already suggested that more thought should be given to the long term civic and social aspects of the proposal. The structure is basically in sound condition and its outward appearance could be easily improved. The provision of a theatre on another site, if that should prove necessary in the future, would be difficult and costly. While there is already some industry located nearby, the area is one of mixed use, with which theatrical activities are not incompatible. The corporation have earmarked an extensive area elsewhere for industrial development in their provisional plan for the town. I understand that the industrialist in question has no intention of using the theatre for the expansion of his industry for some years to come even if it were transferred to him now.
I am fully alive to the importance of planning authorities encouraging and facilitating industrial expansion in their area, but the more they succeed the greater will be the need for a high standard of social and recreational facilities.
I am, accordingly, of the view that what is primarily needed now is not a discussion with a deputation but a more mature consideration of the proposal locally in the light of the various considerations that have been placed before the corporation.
I did not hear the Parliamentary Secretary very well. Am I to take it from his reply that he will in fact receive the deputation as requested by the corporation?
The Minister has not indicated that he is anxious to meet them.
Therefore my question has not been answered.
The Minister has pointed out that no good reason has been given why he should meet them.
Surely the Parliamentary Secretary will be aware of the importance to the town of Clonmel of an additional industry in this time of recession and surely he will appreciate that nothing should be done to hinder or retard the promoter in his plan to build up this industry. Is he not aware that the corporation are practically unanimous in the view that these proposals should be adhered to. The intervention of the Minister has come as a deep shock to all concerned and may well frustrate the progress of the industry.
There are other industrial sites provided in the development plan for the town by the corporation.
I reserve the right to raise this matter on the Adjournment.
Is the Deputy giving notice that he will raise the matter?
I am.
The Chair will communicate with the Deputy.