asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider acquiring Enniscorthy Castle which is lying vacant, as it is suitable for use by various Government Departments with offices in the town, with a view to having them all in one building and in order to relieve the ratepayers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Enniscorthy Castle.
The question of acquiring Enniscorthy Castle with a view to having it adapted for use as Government Departments with offices in the town has been carefully examined. It has been decided not to acquire the property.
This castle is in very good order, with central heating and every facility. If it is left there it will be a burden on the ratepayers of the town, and it is from that point of view that I put down the question. The Minister for Posts and Telegraphs promised us that he would take it over but he now says that it is not suitable. Why pay private landlords around the town big rents for various offices when all these Departments could be housed together—social welfare, unemployment insurance, and even the Guards? It would be relief to the ratepayers.
The Deputy is making a speech.
I am just telling the Parliamentary Secretary what he should do.
The Deputy should look for information and not seek to give it.
I am getting no information from the Parliamentary Secretary.
I have given the Deputy all the information I can give him.