andMr. P. O'Donnell asked the Minister for Finance if he will take immediate steps to carry out the repairs envisaged in the major repair scheme, prepared by his Department in conjunction with Bord Fáilte in 1962, for the preservation of Donegal Castle, Donegal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Preservation of Donegal Castle.
19.
Donegal Castle was placed in the guardianship of the Commissioners of Public Works in 1898. The area in guardianship is restricted to the structure itself and the curtain walls. Recently Bord Fáilte Éireann acquired an area around the castle and portion of the ground within the walls and have vested these in Donegal County Council. The remainder of the area within the walls, which was owned by the Representative Body of the Church of Ireland, has also been vested in the county council.
Bord Fáilte has prepared a scheme of works to improve the site which has for long been in a very neglected condition. The scheme has the approval of the Commissioners of Public Works.
It is understood that works will commence very shortly and will be completed before the tourist season gets under way.