Vol. 489 No. 6
359 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Finance the Government's policy in relation to State owned property which the State has declared that it has no further interest in; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8890/98]
Property which is surplus to the State's requirements is normally disposed of by public auction or tender. In exceptional cases the circumstances may indicate alternative methods such as exchange of properties or sale by private treaty are more appropriate.
360 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Finance when a decision will be made in relation to the application by a Drogheda arts group to develop the Barlow House facility as a community arts project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8891/98]
The Office of Public Works has recently decided that this premises is surplus to State requirements and should, therefore, be disposed of.
Droichead Arts Centre has expressed an interest in operating an arts centre there and I have recently met with the centre's representatives. They have been given time to develop a proposal on how they would finance the purchase of the building.
