asked the Minister for Finance his intentions with regard to the restoration of Swords Castle, County Dublin, in view of the contribution of some £3,000 by the local preservation society towards this work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Dublin Castle.
126.
Mr. Kenny
Swords Castle is in private ownership and is a national monument in the guardianship of the Commissioners of Public Works. Under the National Monuments Acts the commissioners have the duty of preserving and maintaining the castle but they are not empowered under these Acts to spend money on restoration works. A sum of £1,000 has been contributed by Swords Progressive Preservation Society towards the cost of restoring the chapel and main entrance of the castle.
As this amount falls far short of the total estimate for the proposed restoration works which is of the order of £15,000, and as the owner's consent to the works does not yet appear to have been obtained, no further action can be taken at present.
Is it not a fact that the Swords Progressive Preservation Society were in negotiation with the Minister's Department about the restoration of this castle and it was on that basis that they subscribed this sum of £1,000? I understood that it was £3,000. I am informed now that it was £1,000. Can no action be taken to preserve and restore this fine monument in North County Dublin?
Mr. Kenny
Yes, action can be taken all right but this castle is in private ownership and until the private owner gives his consent nothing can be done.