asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that there is widespread resentment at the failure of Cork Corporation to erect either monuments or plaques in the City Hall, Cork, to commemorate the memory of former Lord Mayors Terence MacSwiney and Thomas MacCurtain; and, if so, whether he will take the matter up with the Cork Corporation so that this long-standing neglect may be ended.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Memorials to Former Lord Mayors of Cork.
I understand that no representations have been made to the Cork Corporation within the last ten years regarding the erection of monuments or plaques in the City Hall, Cork, to commemorate the memory of former Lord Mayors. The matter is not one which should necessitate Ministerial intervention, nor could it be made the subject of a mandatory direction. I am sure that the local authority would be quite willing to implement any agreed proposals in the matter. This question will, no doubt, have the effect of bringing the matter to the attention of the corporation. Perhaps I might suggest that the Deputy might also discuss the matter with the Cork representatives in this House.
Is the Minister aware that the Cork City Manager was approached with regard to the erection of these memorials when the city hall was completed, that he entirely approved of such a scheme and agreed to erect two life-size figures outside the main entrance to the city hall; that he brought the matter before the Cork Corporation which approved of it, but that, in deference to the wishes of the relatives, the scheme was withdrawn?
I am so aware.
I am very sorry that Deputy Cowan did not consult the Cork Deputies before he brought up this matter.