asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the future of Athlone Castle.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Athlone Castle.
118.
Athlone Castle is owned by the State and is in use by the Department of Defence. Whatever change in use may occur in the future there is no intention of the State's relinquishing control of the property.
The Deputy has, no doubt, in mind the resolution recently adopted by the Athlone Urban District Council purporting to decide the fate of the castle, to wit, that the castle should be demolished and the site earmarked for a civics centre. This resolution has not been referred by the urban council to the authorities primarily concerned, the Department of Defence and the Commissioners of Public Works. I can assure the Deputy that demolition has never been contemplated by the State nor would it be agreed to by the State in any circumstances.