Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
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Question 777: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans of the Office of Public Works for a premises (details supplied) in County Kerry; when work will begin on the proposed redevelopment of these premises; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22832/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Killarney House was transferred to the State by its previous owners in 1998 and, as part of Killarney National Park, is under the responsibility of the national parks and wildlife service of my Department. The future of Killarney House is being considered within the context of the management plan for Killarney National Park, which is currently being finalised following a period of public consultation. Under that plan, it is intended to retain and preserve the integrity and character of the house both internally and externally.

Following the completion of detailed specialist surveys commissioned by the Office of Public Works, it is clear that major infrastructural works would be required to secure the fabric of Killarney House and to install adequate plumbing, heating and electrical systems if the House was to open to the public. The total cost of these works is estimated at €5 million, which is well in excess of the original estimates for the work. Planning permission for a change of use would also be necessary before the house could be opened to the public. A decision on the nature and extent of works to Killarney House will depend on the future availability of capital funding, having regard to other demands on my Department's capital budget for further works.