Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 17 Oct 1996

Vol. 470 No. 3

Written Answers. - Rathfarnham Castle (Dublin) Restoration.

Seamus Brennan

Question:

91 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the current position on the restoration programme for Rathfarnham Castle, Dublin 14; the yearly amount spent on the castle in each of the years from 1990 to 1996; the estimated total cost of completing the restoration programme; if he will give a breakdown of the proportion of costs borne by the EU and the Exchequer; his views on whether there has been a marked slowdown in the restoration programme in the past couple of years; the discussions, if any, which have or will be held with South Dublin County Council with a view to integrating the restoration of outbuildings with the main restoration work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18917/96]

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

Since the acquisition of Rathfarnham Castle by the State in 1987 the following works have been carried out:—

(1) conservation/restoration of the roof, replacement of defective timbers and treatment of rot;

(2) demolition of two wings added on earlier this century;

(3) mechanical, electrical and security services, restoration of kitchen wing providing reception, tearoom and toilet facilities, provision of car park, provision of a model of the original estate, conservation of the ballroom ceiling and repairs to windows and floors.

Expenditure of £1,032,000 was incurred under the Operational Programme for Tourism 1989-93 of which 25 per cent was borne by the Exchequer. A provision of £1.2 million is included under the Operational Programme for Tourism 1994-99, 25 per cent of which will be met by the Exchequer.

The breakdown of expenditure (in £'000's) each year is as follows:— 1989 - 3; 1990 - 85; 1991 - 164; 1992 - 39; 1993 - 253; 1994 - 488; 1995 - 178; 1996 - 27 (to 30 September).

While the allocation under the Operation Programme for Tourism 1994-99 will ensure that the major elements of restoration works are completed substantial additional funds will be required in future years to complete the full programme of proposed works, a major element being the provision of suitable furnishings.

Conservation/restoration of its nature is a highly specialised, time consuming task particularly in the case of Rathfarnham Castle where there is little or no documentary evidence available on the architectural history of the castle to provide guidance. Painstaking research and investigation are necessary to ensure that the highest standards are maintained in the faithful conservation and restoration of the castle. Having regard to all factors involved I am satisfied that good progress is being made with the restoration work.

Plans are now well advanced to proceed with the next phase of works and it is proposed to invite tenders shortly. These works will include re-rendering, stonework repairs, internal structural repairs together with investigative and conservation work in preparation for decoration of certain rooms.

There have been communications between the local authority and my Department in relation to the outbuildings (which are owned by the local authority) and I understand that the local authority intends to invite submissions regarding outline development proposals for these buildings.