Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Will Ms McGrath let me know about the 1963 Act, as I would be interested in taking a look at it?

I wish to turn to my next point, as I am running out of time. I have a question on the care of our built heritage. I am a fan of Leinster House and other buildings in State ownership, many of which were lost at the founding of the State. I am glad to say that a number of buildings are beginning to flourish. There is a significant number of notable properties where there are difficulties with ownership.

I understand that Aldborough House, in Portland Row, Dublin which had been neglected for more than a decade has been purchased. It is as notable as Leinster House in terms of its importance. There are a number of properties right across the country, one in County Sligo, which I understand has been purchased recently but was allow to become dilapidated for 20 years.

Properties have been purchased by the State over the years. Is this Government policy or a response to political pressure? Is there an allocation in the Vote of the OPW to consider buying properties that are at extreme risk? Does McGrath envisage that more money will be allocated to do this in the coming years? It is fair to say that the Department of Finance has worked on the policy in regard to the maintenance of significant properties, by giving property owners the opportunity to avail of certain tax breaks to rejuvenate properties. Is the OPW considering that actively?