Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 188: To ask the Minister for Finance when it is proposed to lay down flooring boards on the upper floor of Portumna Castle in County Galway; the total expenditure on the castle from 1968 to 2004; the contribution from the EU to the restoration of the castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16931/05]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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As only work of a routine maintenance nature was undertaken during the period 1968 to 1989, the information sought by the Deputy for these years is unavailable.

The EU programme of works at Portumna Castle was undertaken during the years 1990 to 2000 and eligible expenditure under the EU programme during this period amounted to some €3,643,880, of which €2,318,200 was contributed by the EU.

Under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, some €236,000 was expended on Portumna Castle during the period 2000 to 2003. There has been no capital expenditure on the castle since 2003 but routine maintenance works continue to be undertaken.

It is not proposed to undertake further works, including additional flooring, at Portumna Castle. The significant investment made to date at Portumna Castle has resulted in a distinctive tourist amenity for the region. The major objectives for Portumna Castle, which were to provide extended public access and an enhanced exhibition for visitors, have been achieved.