Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Durkan for his long-time commitment to Castletown House and estate. Everybody recognises the efforts of the OPW and the State in the care and preservation of Castletown House. I will say that the OPW wants to continue to welcome visitors to Castletown House. However, the impact of the protest is that the refuse cannot be collected, staff are working without heating, the essential systems in the house cannot be maintained and serviced, and essential works to the outdoor areas of the estate cannot be done to ensure the site is safe for staff and visitors. It is now critical that all elected and community representatives enable the OPW to undertake these essential works. The points I have already made about the negotiations stand and I wish them a successful conclusion.

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