John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. There is no question but that investment in our archaeological and built heritage delivers great benefits to the public through enhancing the character of an area. I acknowledge the representations the Deputy has made on this specific case.

As indicated, Shannon Airport Group operated Sharon Heritage on a commercial basis in line with its commercial mandate, meaning the sites were likely to open only on a seasonal basis. The Deputy referred to the transfer of four sites to Clare County Council, which did receive support through funding, but the Deputy must acknowledge that the transfer of four sites was exceptionally complex and involved the transfer of staff. St. John's Castle was transferred to Limerick City and County Council without any financial support from the Government. That is why I have outlined several schemes available to assist local authorities in maintaining and upgrading our built heritage assets. Those schemes are set out as I set out in my original remarks and I will be more than happy to work with Galway County Council regarding them, but there is a difference between providing funding to one site as opposed to four whose transfer was complex and involved the transfer of staff. I acknowledge the Deputy's representations on this matter.

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