Vol. 482 No. 2
18 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the proposal by the National Gallery to build a new extension which would involve the demolition of an 18th century house in Leinster Street, Dublin 2; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17366/97]
21 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the planned extension of the National Gallery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17410/97]
I propose taking Questions Nos. 18 and 21 together.
In general terms, the long-awaited and much needed proposed development of the National Gallery of Ireland is to be welcomed. In this context, the Deputy will note that this project was signalled as a project for funding under the terms of the Operational Programme for Tourism 1994-99 and £7.5 million in European funds from this programme has been earmarked towards the construction of this extension, with the remainder to be provided through private funding.
The Board of Governors and Guardians of the National Gallery of Ireland have primary responsibility for all aspects of this project, including decisions regarding the purchase of lands, the terms of reference for the award of the architectural competition, the design brief and planning application involved.
The board lodged a planning application with Dublin Corporation, in respect of this major extension to its existing premises. I understand that while planning approval has been granted by Dublin Corporation, an appeal against this decision has been lodged by third parties with An Bord Pleanála in the matter.
It would be inappropriate for me to comment on any specific aspect of the proposed development.
