David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response and for indicating that work is ongoing. I understand it is complicated. It is a very old building and the conservation rules are quite demanding. I would be grateful if the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donovan, to whom I have spoken about this, could impress upon those involved the importance of this particular building to local tourism. It very much links in with Fota House, Fota Island Resort and the town of Cobh. I know the Minister, Deputy McGrath, will be visiting Cobh tomorrow morning. These all link together and it is a shame this particular castle has not been available for quite some time. There is also an extensive garden, an orchard and so forth. It is a real gem. Perhaps the Ministers could visit it when they are on their summer vacations and have a look. It is hidden away and I really want to see it reopening as soon as possible, as does the local community.

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