Vol. 510 No. 3
348 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if officials of her Department examined the Church of St. Paul on Arran Quay, marriage place of former President, Éamon de Valera, which is now lying empty; the proposals, if any, she has to impose conditions on its future use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22508/99]
349 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if an examination has been carried out on the Loreto Chapel, Rathfarnham, currently on the market for sale; the conditions, if any, she will impose on its future use in view of its importance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22509/99]
While officials of my Department were not formally asked to inspect or provide advice on the Loreto Chapel, they are aware that it was built between 1838 and 1843 from the designs of Patrick Byrne and AWN Pugin. The altarpiece and statuary are by the neo-classical sculptor John Hogan. The building and its contents are of international significance. Primary responsibility for the protection of the architectural heritage rests with the planning authorities.
From 1 January next protection will extend to the interior also and works be undertaken on the building without planning permission. If any proposals arise the planning authority will be obliged to consult with my Department who will offer advice on the future conservation of the building. In the meanwhile contact will be made with the owners to advise on the importance of safeguarding the building and its fixtures.
The Government has taken major steps this year to strengthen the protection of the architectural heritage. Apart from the legislative measures introduced, additional resources have been made available both to my Department and to local authorities to assist their work in this area. Information seminars for the planning authorities are about to take place and next year additional permanent staff will be available to my Department to support such work.
350 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her officials have examined the Presbyterian church at Adelaide Road; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this church is planned for demolition and facade retention treatment; if she has considered conditions for its future use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22510/99]
The Presbyterian Church, Adelaide Road is a 19th century neo-classical building erected in 1840 from the designs of William Farrell. The building is of regional importance because of the quality of its facade. It is primarily the responsibility of the planning authority to protect the architectural heritage and my role is mainly an advisory one. While in this instance planning permission has been validly obtained to demolish the church, while at the same time retaining the facade, it is understood that this has been appealed and is currently being considered by An Bord Pleanála.
