Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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Question 151: To ask the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works will continue to retain responsibility for the maintenance of Castletown House, Celbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30190/06]

Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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Question 152: To ask the Minister for Finance his views on purchasing Batty Langley Lodge, Castletown Demesne, Celbridge, County Kildare on behalf of the State due to the historical significance of the property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30191/06]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together.

The Office of Public Works is currently responsible for the maintenance of Castletown House and there are no plans to change this situation. In relation to the possible acquisition by the State of Batty Langley Lodge, I accept that there may be some merit in acquiring the property to strengthen the integrity of the Castletown Demesne. However, I do not consider its acquisition essential in the context of the overall strategy for the management and conservation of Castletown House and Estate. The matter will be kept under review as part of the ongoing management and development of the House and Estate by the Office of Public Works.