I propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 28, 41, 46 and 81 together.
The function of the Irish Heritage Trust is to acquire for public access major important heritage properties which the State may not be in a position to acquire or manage directly and where there is imminent risk to the heritage value of the property through neglect or an appropriate use cannot be brought forward through sale to a private investor. The terms of the trust will be sufficiently broad to allow it to acquire other properties and land of heritage value, but it is envisaged that any extension of its activities will only happen once it has gained experience in relation to heritage buildings.
On 7 November 2005 I announced the establishment of a small but broadly based steering group to advise on the finalisation of the trust arrangements. The group which has the experience and knowledge necessary for this task is to report to me by January next.
The proposed approach does not involve a specific statutory basis to declare inalienability of a particular property. The steering group, however, will be in a position to advise me on how best to proceed in relation to this matter.