Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)

I apologise on behalf of the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, who is unable to be here and asked me to take this Adjournment matter on his behalf. I thank the Senator for raising it.

As the Minister of State outlined to the Seanad on 8 February, Oldbridge Estate was the core site of the historic Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The property comprises some 500 acres and an 18th century manor house, associated outbuildings and walled gardens. Following development by the Office of Public Works as a heritage and tourism presentation, the site has proved to be a popular public attraction. The site is of particular significance to the Unionist community in Northern Ireland and also attracts a broad range of general visitors. The extensive facilities provided, both indoor and outdoor, have won much praise and helped to establish Oldbridge as one of the top tourist attractions in the region. Over 40,000 visitors annually are received in the house, with multiples of this number making use of the grounds and walkways. Sport, leisure and recreational users represent a high proportion of the overall number of visitors and families, in particular, make great use of the open parkland, gardens and refreshment services.

In the light of this experience, OPW agreed, in principle, that a playground would be a fitting and popular additional facility and, having developed a design scheme, planning permission was obtained from Meath County Council. Following completion of final design details, tenders were invited for the first stage of the scheme. This comprises civil engineering works such as soil excavation, site preparation and drainage. The matter will be kept under review throughout the remainder of the year in the light of the prevailing financial climate.

Given the relevance of a playground facility to the local community and the role of the local authority in this context, Meath County Council has also been asked to make a contribution to the cost of the provision of the playground and its subsequent maintenance. While a response has not yet been received from the council, it is considered such an approach would be mutually beneficial to the objectives of the two public bodies. If funding can be made available from the local authority, it would greatly help our commitment to enhancing this much needed facility at Oldbridge. The Minister of State is still confident that a solution can be found and has instructed his officials to contact the county council again to ascertain the level of funding it may be able to provide.