Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 266: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the deterioration a college (details supplied). [7399/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The conservation principles of care and protection of the architectural heritage are set out in Part IV of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended.

Generally, under the Act, planning authorities have a clear obligation to create a record of protected structures. Under section 58 of the Act owners and occupiers of protected structures have a duty to protect such structures from endangerment. Sections 59 to 78 of the Act give planning authorities powers with regard to the protection of these structures, including powers to require works to be carried out in relation to endangerment of protected structures and to require restoration of the character of protected structures. Belcamp Hall (Belcamp College) school complex (including house, chapel, Washington Monument, bridge, ballcourt, and ice-house) is included in the Record of Protected Structures of Fingal County Council.

My understanding from the Council is that the property (buildings and grounds) is in private ownership and the Council is satisfied that, up to recent weeks, the security measures, in place for a number of years without any serious incident, were sufficient to secure the premises.

However, due to an unprecedented level of apparently targeted vandalism, the Council, with the full consent, co-operation and involvement of the owner, very recently took measures to secure the property and to safely remove stained glass windows and associated decorative items in order to safeguard their survival. This action was taken reluctantly by the Council and only as a last resort. The Council, in such instances, would normally endeavour to keep such items in their place of origin, in line with best conservation practice.

The items taken from the property, under the direction of the Council, are being securely stored under the control of the National Museum.

My Department has asked Fingal County Council to keep it appraised of the situation.