andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether the Government have given any further consideration to the desirability of acquiring Powerscourt Demesne.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Powerscourt Demesne.
1.
In reply to questions addressed to me on the 10th May, 1960, I informed the House that the Government were not considering the acquisition of Powerscourt Estate. That is still the position.
Has the Taoiseach seen a reference to the fact that the National Trust would be agreeable or are anxious to take over this house if the Government would make funds available and would he say if he has considered that proposition?
I do not recollect receiving such representations.
May I ask the Taoiseach, if he receives representations that the house should be taken over by the National Trust, will he be prepared to consider them sympathetically?
I receive all representations sympathetically.
Does the Taoiseach approve of the situation at the moment where this estate is for sale by a London auctioneer and the question arises of its being divided into lots by the people concerned who are not under the control of the State? Does he approve of that?
All I am concerned with is, that the Government is not going to buy it.
In view of the fact that this property is being offered for sale by a group of London auctioneers, would the Taoiseach consider introducing legislation to prevent London auctioneers from operating in this country?
That is a separate question.
A very important question.
I am calling Question No. 2.
Further arising from the Taoiseach's reply——
I have called Question No. 2.
——may I ask if he is aware of the fact that Powerscourt Estate has been used for many years by Dublin people and other visitors as it has many public amenities, walks through the woods and so on, and whether he will make any attempt to preserve these amenities under any new ownership which may transpire as a result of the present negotiations in London?
I have answered the question that I have been asked. The Government is not going to buy it.
Is the Government going to sell the rest of the country?
Is there any truth in the rumour that Leinster House is being put up for sale?