Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 3 Mar 1993

Vol. 427 No. 3

Written Answers. - Upgrading of County Clare Castle.

Donal Carey

Question:

65 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Finance the proposal, if any, he has for the upgrading of Lemenagh Castle, Kilfenora, County Clare which is a National Monument on land belonging to a person (details supplied); and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this person has had to erect an electric fence to prevent access to his land and property because he cannot establish whether he is responsible for visitors wishing to view these premises which are in a very dangerous condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Dempsey)

The Commissioners of Public Works have no plans for major works to Lemenagh Castle.

The castle is privately owned but it has Guardianship status under the National Monuments Acts. As guardians of the castle, the Commissioners are empowered only to carry out basic conservation works and these are undertaken periodically. As a result of these works, I am satisfied that the castle represents no threat to visitors.

I am aware that the owner has prohibited public access to the castle and the surrounding lands after the castle was named publicly as an alternative to the Burren Visitor Centre. Unfortunately, as the castle is private property, I cannot insist on public access.