asked the Minister for Finance the present position regarding the proposals to bring back into the country the Gough equestrian statute; if he will give an indication as to where it is proposed to re-erect this fine example of Irish bronze sculpture; the number of meetings that have taken place between officials of his Department and representatives of the owner of the statue; the reason it has taken so long for negotiations to be concluded; the areas of difference that still remain between his officials and the owner of the statue who has indicated in public that he is willing to have the statue returned to Ireland provided it is re-erected in a public place; the costs, if any, which are involved in the return of this unique Irish equestrian statue to Dublin city, having regard to the city's celebration of the Millennium in 1988; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Gough Equestrian Statue.
41.
It is not intended for the present at least, to bring back the statue.