asked the Minister for Finance at what date it is expected to complete the erection of the statue to Thomas Davis mentioned at Vote 9, subhead B, number 4, and for what exact purpose is the estimated expenditure of £1,000 on this statue during the year 1963-64.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Thomas Davis Statue.
28.
In view of the general interest in this project, I think it well to acquaint the House of developments in the matter.
In 1961, with the concurrence of An Chomhairle Ealaion the prominent Irish sculptor, Mr. Edward Delaney, who had studied sculpture at the National College of Art from 1951-1953 and later, methods of bronze casting, on the Continent, was asked to submit a design of a suitable memorial to Davis for the site in College Green, Dublin, where a foundation stone had been laid by President O'Ceallaigh in 1945, the centenary year of Davis's death. Mr. Delaney duly submitted his design consisting of a paved platform measuring about 55 feet by 18 feet by 9 inches high with a pedestal and a bronze figure of Davis, approximately 10 feet high, and a circular pool embellished with bronze reliefs depicting Young Ireland. The general concept of the design having been approved the sculptor was asked to prepare a two feet high maquette of the figure of Davis for approval. Three such maquettes were, in fact, prepared. The latest, which was submitted in the past few weeks, is regarded as satisfactory. Steps will now be taken for the preparation of the finished full scale statue and reliefs. The execution of this work is, I am advised, a matter which cannot be hurried, but it is hoped that the entire scheme, which is estimated to cost about £15,000, will be completed within two years from now.
The provision of £1,000 in the current year's estimate for Public Works and Buildings will be required for the payment of fees to the sculptor.