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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 29 Feb 1972

Vol. 259 No. 4

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Open Space.

31.

asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider having the open space at Merrion Square acquired and developed as a public park and children's playground, either by the Office of Public Works or by Dublin Corporation.

The property concerned is in private ownership and it is not proposed that the State should consider taking steps to have it acquired and developed as suggested by the Deputy. I am not aware of any proposals which the Dublin Corporation may have in the matter.

If, in fact, this property were made available by the present owners would the Parliamentary Secretary be prepared to take it over and run it as a park?

This question was examined some years ago and it was considered by the Board of Works and the Government at that time that this would be better utilised by the municipal authorities. We have two parks in Dublin at present, St. Stephen's Green and the Phoenix Park and it was felt that the local authority would be the most suitable body to deal with it. Although it has nothing to do with me I have often thought that if the Archbishop were to negotiate with the Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral it might be possible to make a deal which would enable him to release Merrion Square. That has nothing to do with me.

I am sure that helpful suggestion will be conveyed to the proper quarters. Does the Parliamentary Secretary's file indicate whether Dublin Corporation have indicated a willingness to look after and run it as a park if it did become available?

I have not that information, but I imagine it is the type of thing in which they would have an interest.

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