asked the Minister for Finance when he expects to open the municipal golf course in the Phoenix Park, Dublin; and the total number of acres involved.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Phoenix Park (Dublin).
37.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a question on this subject on 12th November, 1970.
As I stated on that occasion a firm of landscape consultants has been appointed to advise on the development of the Phoenix Park extension and to examine the feasibility of including a golf course in their plans. A preliminary report has been received from the consultants showing how a 9 hole course could be provided, with a possible extension later to an 18 hole course. An 18 hole course would cover about 100 acres while about half that area would be required for a 9 hole course.
Some of the lands involved are at present let and a number of proposals to meet this problem will need to be considered.
38.
asked the Minister for Finance the total number of acres in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, other than those devoted to the zoological and people's gardens, which are taken up by private and public buildings; and if he will list these acreages.
The total area of the Phoenix Park occupied by enclosures in which private and public buildings are situated, other than the zoological and people's gardens, is approximately 415 acres. The details are set out in a statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.
Following is the statement:
|
Property |
Acres |
|
Áras an Uachtaráin |
200 |
|
Apostolic Nunciature |
55 |
|
American Ambassador's Residence |
70 |
|
Garda Síochána Headquarters |
11 |
|
Ordnance Survey |
16 |
|
St. Mary's Hospital |
32 |
|
Department of Defence Headquarters, Infirmary Road |
9 |
|
Lodges and other miscellaneous buildings |
22 |
|
TOTAL |
415 |
39.
asked the Minister for Finance whether in the Phoenix Park he will create a special access track to the area at present used for horse-riding; and if he will ensure that horse-riding will continue in the Park.
The considerable increase in the number of horses using the Phoenix Park in recent times has given rise to numerous complaints from members of the public about the damage being caused to the turf and the danger to other Park users. As I said in reply to a question on 11th February, 1971, the adequacy of the existing bye-laws to deal with this situation is under consideration.
The suggestion that horses should be confined to special gallops and access tracks is also being examined.
Total banning of horse riding in the Park is not contemplated.