Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 5 Nov 1992

Vol. 424 No. 10

Ceisteanna — Questions. Written Answers. - Kinsale (Cork) Golf Club Development.

Proinsias De Rossa

Question:

67 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by residents of the Kinsale area of County Cork regarding a proposal to develop part of the Old Head of Kinsale as a golf course; if in view of the threat that this development would pose to this natural amenity, he will ensure that publicly owned land is not provided for a golf course; if he will consider taking additional land in the area into public ownership; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. N. Treacy)

I have received representations from interested groups in connection with the proposed golf club development on the Old Head of Kinsale. The site of the proposed golf course is held in private ownership, with the exception of the area of the former signal station, which is owned by the Commissioners of Public Works. Nearly three years ago, the Commissioners approached the owner to exchange their site for a more elevated inland site in order to assist the development of an improved maritime communications system for the Department of the Marine. The exchange of lands was agreed and the legal formalities are in train.

Part of the land on the Old Head of Kinsale has been designated a refuge for fauna under the Wildlife Act, 1976. This designation is considered to afford sufficient protection to the wildlife. The Commissioners have no plans to acquire lands on the Old Head of Kinsale.