asked the Minister for Finance the up-to-date position in regard to Rathfarnham Castle and in particular, if he will state the action which will now be taken by the Office of Public Works to ensure the full preservation of the castle as a local and national amenity, and to ensure security at the castle.
Written Answers. - Rathfarnham Castle.
105.
A permanent preservation order was made by the Commissioners of Public Works on 27 August 1986, in exercise of powers vested in them under the National Monuments Acts, 1930 and 1954, in respect of Rathfarnham Castle and the lands surrounding it. That Order requires the preservation of the Castle as a National Monument. The owners continue to employ security staff who provide a continuous watch on the premises. In my reply to the Deputy on 24 June 1986, I stated that negotiations were in progress with a view to public ownership of the Castle. These negotiations are continuing.