Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am concerned about the Minister's response. First and foremost, we understand from media reports that the Department was aware as far back as 2013 of the difficulties at Russborough House, although Deputy Heather Humphreys was not Minister at the time, and that Government aid was sought. What we are looking at is a situation in which, to meet the ongoing demand for about €1 million per annum, it has been decided to sell, if not the family silver, art works which were intended to be retained at Russborough House. There is a lot of public confusion about what the position is between the Alfred Beit Foundation and the State. It would useful, therefore, if in the course of this debate we were to clarify for the public that the 17 masterpieces bequeathed to the National Gallery of Ireland are in it and secure. Nonetheless, there continues to be public concern about the works retained at Russborough House. It cannot continue selling art works in order to maintain the house. I put it to the Minister that she does have a responsibility in that regard.

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