Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

These contracts were signed a number of months ago. In fairness to the owners of all historic houses, whether operated by the State, private trust or private people, these houses are very costly to run. I pressed the foundation on this particular issue and they informed me that they had sought expert advice in regard to all aspects of their operations and that they have taken many steps to increase income for the foundation. The level of income gap is not unusual for this type of property. I would also like to put on the record that An Taisce, the Irish Georgian Society, UCD and Trinity all have representatives on the board. I clarify again that there is no legal power available to me to prevent the sale.