Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 292: To ask the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will review staffing levels at a national park (details supplied). [11297/11]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I assure the Deputy that, as in previous years, Muckross Gardens continue to be managed and maintained to the highest possible standards, as evidenced by the many positive comments from visitors to the gardens and also the favourable mention of the gardens in a magazine, The Irish Garden, last year. As with all gardens, climatic conditions can have a marked bearing on the appearance of Muckross Gardens. In this regard, it should be noted that the past two winters have been the coldest since records began at the weather station in Muckross. Unfortunately, due to these exceptionally cold winters many of the Southern Hemisphere and tender plants in the Gardens were damaged or lost. However, the dedicated staff at Muckross Gardens are continuing their work on the rehabilitation or removal and replacement of damaged shrubs and plants with a view to restoring Muckross Gardens to pristine condition. I am satisfied, given the current economic circumstances, that the staffing levels at Muckross Gardens are appropriate.