I propose with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle to take Question Nos. 41 and 42 together.
I am in communication with a member of the Vincent family regarding this matter.
The proposal is within the terms of clause 5 of the Preliminary Agreement regarding the transfer of the Bourn Vincent Memorial Park to the State as shown in Part I of the Schedule to the Bourn Vincent Memorial Park Act, 1932, and is also covered by Sections 11 and 12 of that Act.
The following uses for Muckross House have been considered: youth hostel, country residence for the President, convalescent home, dairy instruction centre, domestic economy school, horticulture and forestry institute, retreat house for a religious community, private residence, biological research station, folklore or other type museum, venue for international conferences, liminology centre or hotel training centre. None of these was regarded as suitable for adoption.
In 1935 An Óige were given permission to inspect Muckross House but did not make any proposals for using it. In 1952 An Óige asked for the use of the basement of the house but this proposal was rejected on technical advice. It is understood that An Óige have been accommodated elsewhere in the area.
With regard to this matter generally, as already indicated in a statement issued to the Press, no final decision has yet been taken.