Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Jul 1990

Vol. 401 No. 6

Written Answers. - County Kildare Estate.

Theresa Ahearn

Question:

60 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the disposal of part of the Lyons Estate, Celbridge, County Kildare, she has satisfied herself that the research facilities available are severely diminished; if she will outline the steps she intends to take to ensure that adequate research continues in the agriculture and food area; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Question Number 20 on 6 March 1990 on this subject, in which I outlined the circumstances which led to the decision by the governing body of University College, Dublin to sell a part of the Lyons' Estate.

This decision was taken after due consideration of the needs of the faculty of general agriculture for teaching and research.

I have been advised that the college and the Higher Education Authority are satisfied that the sale will not affect the capacity of the college to undertake any required agricultural research and development and I accept their judgment in the matter.