asked the Taoiseach if he will give an indication as to the likelihood of the State acquiring Carton House and estate in Maynooth, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the possibility of such an acquisition in 1984.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Maynooth (Kildare) Estate.
2.
As I indicated in response to a question from the Deputy on this subject, on 26 April 1983, the preservation of Carton House and demesne is of great artistic and cultural importance. I have been in contact with representatives of the owners about proposals for the future of Carton. I understand that Kildare County Council are considering the draft development plan which will be so important for the future of Carton.
Could the Minister of State indicate the response from the owners? Could he say as well if he has examined the possible uses to which Carton House and Estate could be put; also whether he has examined their employment potential should an acquisition take place?
The overriding position as far as Carton House and Demesne are concerned is that they are in private ownership. That is the reality of the situation at present. I did meet representatives of the owners and I requested that the future of Carton House and Demesne be secured and continued for many years. Generally the response of the owners was very interesting — if I may put it that way. They also seemed to have very much the same ideas, as outlined to me at any rate. There are various prospects for the possible use of Carton if it ever came into public ownership. All of these must be fully explored and the employment content would be very significant in many of these. But the overriding situation is that they are now in private ownership. I can assure the Deputy that all possible ways will be explored to ensure its continuance and preservation. Then, in any such review, the state of public finances would have to be borne very much in mind.