Vol. 558 No. 5
345 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the amount of money spent on the renovation work at Carrigafoyle Castle, County Kerry, to date; the total budget available for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25183/02]
346 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his future plans for Carrigafoyle Castle, Ballylongford, County Kerry; if his plans include the restoration of the ground floor of the castle to facilitate the large number of tourists visiting the attraction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25184/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 345 and 346 together.
My Department is currently carrying out a programme of conservation and restoration works to the Carrigafoyle Castle structure. This comprises of internal works to the doors and windows undertaken by Departmental staff and external conservation and restoration works undertaken by a specialist contractor. The programme of works outlined is expected to cost in excess of €600,000 with a spend to date of some €350,000.
Works to restore the ground floor are not included in the current works programme. My Department has more than 740 heritage properties under its care and has many demands on its limited resources. The Deputy will appreciate that my Department has undertaken a number of restoration projects in the Kerry region, among them projects at Ardfert Cathedral, Gallarus Castle and Listowel Castle.
