Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 1

Written Answers. - National Monuments.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

316 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will purchase lands at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 22 in order to preserve the area for future generations in view of the fact that the present owner, in consultation with South Dublin County Council, is applying for a major development in the environs of the monument including the construction of an interpretative centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14909/00]

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

Clondalkin Round Tower is a national monument in State care. My Department is maintaining close contact with the planning authority in regard to any proposed developments in and around the tower to ensure that there will not be any adverse impact on the tower.

Acquisition of the land is not an option available to me at present as all resources currently available to me are committed to the care and conservation of the national monuments already in my care.