Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Nov 1999

Vol. 509 No. 6

Written Answers. - Asgard Restoration Project.

Enda Kenny

Question:

480 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she received a request for a meeting with the Asgard Restoration Project on 29 July 1999; if so, if she has considered this request; if she will agree to this meeting in order to be fully informed on the nature of the project in view of her responsibility in determining whether a licence to restore the Asgard should be granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21023/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

I met with representatives of the Asgard Restoration Project on 19 October 1999, and they outlined their position which I will take into consideration in arriving at a considered decision on the application for a licence.

My role in the vessel's future at this point is strictly confined to deciding the issue in relation to the application for a licence to alter it under the National Monuments Acts. I also refer the Deputy to my answer to Priority Questions Nos. 1 and 2 of 7 October 1999 in this regard.