Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Jul 1993

Vol. 433 No. 5

Written Answers. - Castletown House, Celbridge, County Kildare.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

48 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the total moneys to be expended by the Office of Public Works with regard to its taking charge of Castletown House, Celbridge, County Kildare; if he will give details, if any, of the proposed programmes to promote the facilities at the house; the number of jobs likely to arise as a consequence of the take-over; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

49 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the up-to-date position regarding the take-over of Castletown House, Celbridge, County Kildare by the Office of Public Works; when it is expected that the formal hand-over will take place; whether the change-over will involve the setting up of a maintenance unit at Castletown House; whether ongoing maintenance and other requirements in respect of Castletown House are likely to be met from a central location outside of the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 49 together.

It is hoped that the transfer of Castletown House to the Office of Public Works will take effect on 1 January 1994. The extent of the renovation works necessary will depend on the results of a detailed architectural survey which is about to commence. The property will form part of the portfolio of the National Monuments and Historic Properties Service, be advertised as such and will continue to be open to the public with a full guide service. As details about the renovation works, maintenance programmes and services have yet to be decided it is not possible at this juncture to estimate employment potential. Neither is it possible at this stage to give a realistic estimate of the capital and running costs which will arise.