Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Durkan for raising this important matter. I note the point he has raised. I have stated, in my time as Minister of State, that Lime Avenue is not a permanent access point. There are varying views in terms of it being a temporary access. As far as a permanent access is concerned, however, that is not something I am looking at.

The Deputy is right; there is a need for a permanent solution. Equally, we have to find some way to get the staff back in to bring the grounds back up to standard because they are in serious neglect and disrepair. I want to state to the Deputy, all Oireachtas Members and the councillors and community groups in the area that my commitment on this particular issue is unwavering. The OPW has a long-established policy of seeking to reunite the historic Castletown House estate. That is in the interest of both the staff and the public accessing it, whether they are locals or visitors. I am aware of particular issues in this regard and I want to work in a collaborative way with everyone to find a resolution.

I understand how important this issue is to the Deputy, as a fellow public representative, and to the public in the area. I have met people and I know exactly what it means. I remain absolutely committed to finding a resolution to this case.

See this speech in context