Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 4

Written Answers. - Visitor Centres.

Michael Ring

Question:

138 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the position with regard to a visitor centre at Ballycroy, County Mayo; if it is going ahead; the funding which has been provided; when it will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12886/03]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 721 of 7 May.

As stated in reply to previous questions, an allocation of €3.8 million was indicated under the National Development Plan 2000-06 for the pro vision of a visitor centre for Ballycroy National Park. An attractive and extensive site has already been acquired for the proposed building in the village of Ballycroy. A working group, comprising officials of my Department, the Office of Public Works, Mayo County Council and local tourism, development and community representatives, has brought the project to an advanced stage. I hope to make a final decision on this project in the near future.