asked the Taoiseach if he will nominate the Minister who has responsibility for retaining private dwellings such as thatched cottages which are of considerable importance to our national heritage but where no grant-aid for upkeep or repair appears to be available on a practical basis as representations made by Deputy Austin Deasy have in such cases been refused by the Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Tourism and Transport; and if he will outline for people who are anxious to carry out maintenance work, the procedures to be followed by the owners of such buildings.
Written Answers. - Conservation of Private Dwellings.
37.
At present the upkeep and repair of thatched cottages would be primarily a matter for the proprietors of such cottages.
It is proposed to establish a National Heritage Council with responsibility for archaeological, architectural and wildlife development and conservation. Architectural conservation will include the conservation of vernacular architecture.