Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 22 Feb 1995

Vol. 449 No. 5

Written Answers. - Bective (Meath) Abbey.

Colm M. Hilliard

Ceist:

57 Mr. Hilliard asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are no carpark facilities for visitors to Bective Abbey, County Meath, to the fact that the surrounding stone wall of the site is collapsing and to the fact that the section along the road is dangerous for motorists; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there is a dangerous bend at the entrance to the Abbey; the approximate date on which renovation work will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4030/95]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. J. Higgins)

I am aware that there are no carparking facilities for visitors to Bective Abbey. As I mentioned in my reply to the question of 15 February 1995, the Office of Public Works would like to provide such facilities at the site but it is likely to be 1996, at least, before the work can begin depending on the availability of resources.

I understand that a dangerous section of the boundary wall was taken down some years ago by the landowner and replaced with a post and wire fence. The Office of Public Works has responsibility only for part of the wall and is satisfied that its condition does not pose a threat. The remainder of the wall is privately owned and the Office of Public Works has no authority to interfere with it. With regard to the road outside the monument, the Office of Public Works will co-operate as far as possible with any plans the county council has for improving it.