asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to an article in a local paper in County Wexford (details supplied) alleging that the Office of Public Works has damaged the ancient castle at Ferns, County Wexford, and created a serious hazard for children in the grounds of the castle; and if he will indicate (a) the steps it is proposed to take to remedy the position (b) the further works that are to be carried out at the castle and (c) the expenditure to date on the works there.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Wexford Castle.
3.
: I have seen the article referred to concerning Ferns Castle. A scheme of preservation works, with some preliminary archaeological excavation, is being carried out at the castle in the course of which a makeshift ball alley was removed. I am advised that the works are fenced off as a safety measure. The works will take about three years to complete and the expenditure to date is £13,000 approximately. It is intended to reseed the adjoining fair green where it may have been damaged by spoil. I am satisfied that the finished scheme will give the monument a very presentable appearance and will not create a hazard.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that the excavations being carried out at Ferns Castle have been satisfactorily fenced off to prevent injuries and so forth to children? My information is to the contrary.
My information is that they have been satisfactorily fenced off as a precaution against injury to anyone, particularly children, who may approach.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say when the Board of Works will resume work at Ferns Castle?
I have no precise date here but I understand a certain amount of work has been carried out. Archaeological excavation is going on and this is necessary for the proper restoration of the castle.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary ask the Board of Works to have another look at the fencing and the precautions taken to prevent injuries to children?
I will convey the Deputy's request to the Board of Works though, as I said, I understand there are sufficient safety precautions in operation at the moment.