Vol. 513 No. 6
360 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has received requests from any organisations, bodies or local authorities for funding towards acquiring Silver Spring House, Clonmel, former home of Charles Bianconi; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3023/00]
There is no record in my Department of such a request in respect of this property.
In general, my Department does not directly provide financial support for projects of the type referred to by the Deputy. However, one source of public funds for such projects is the Heritage Council, which has powers to provide advice and assistance, including financial assistance, in relation to the protection, preservation and promotion of the physical heritage.
I should emphasise that the protection of the architectural heritage is primarily a matter for the planning authorities and that my role is mainly to provide advice to the planning authorities in the exercise of their functions.
361 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the steps, if any, her Department is taking to avoid any part of the Mount Congreve estate, Waterford, being compulsorily acquired to provide a route for a road bypass in view of the fact the estate is being gifted to the State and is of international importance due to its rare plants and trees which make it an outstanding scientific and cultural resource; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3127/00]
Officials of my Department have been in contact with Waterford County Council and the roadway design team regarding the possible impact on the Mount Con greve Estate which may result from the proposed Waterford bypass. They have availed of every opportunity to stress the importance, both nationally and internationally, of the Mount Congreve Estate and Gardens and to oppose any plans that would have a significant negative impact thereon.
I understand the Mount Congreve Trustees agreed last year to the undertaking of various surveys and tests on the property and results of these will be incorporated in the environmental impact statement which is scheduled for publication in seven to eight weeks. The EIS will be examined by my officials to ensure that the proposed scheme does not have a significant negative impact not only on Mount Congreve Estate and Gardens but also on the natural and built heritage of the area.
In the circumstance, the issue of compulsory acquisition does not arise at the present time.
