asked the Minister for Education if he will consider establishing an outdoor pursuit centre at the former industrial school, Letterfrack, County Galway.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Outdoor Pursuit Centre.
20.
The Minister for Education has no legal interest in this property which reverted to the Diocesan Trust of the Archbishop of Tuam on the closing of the school. There is no proposal before the Department for the establishment of an outdoor pursuit centre.
In view of the fact that the Parliamentary Secretary has responsibility for physical education, for outdoor pursuits, for sport in general, I put down this question asking if he will consider the establishment of an outdoor pursuits centre at Letterfrack. I do not think his reply relates directly to the question I put to him. Would he consider the establishment of such a centre as being praiseworthy and, worthwhile and if so, would he examine the lands and buildings available there and then consider seriously the establishment of such a centre?
As I outlined in my reply, the position is that the buildings and associated property do not belong to the Department. The initial decision as to their use would rest with those who own them. I am considering the question of outdoor pursuits, but we do not have provision at the moment on a general basis for centres such as this. I agree with the Deputy that it is a matter requiring consideration.
I wonder if it has dawned on the Parliamentary Secretary that the premises and lands could be purchased by the Department. The fact that they are not owned by the Department should not stop the Department from considering whether it would be worthwhile——
The availability of funds for such a purpose would represent a major decision. This is something to be considered in a general context, not in the context of one location.
We seem to be on the rocks completely.