Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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235. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the progress on the job appointments to Killarney House and Gardens to complement the €1 million investment; when the opening date of the facility will be; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7380/15]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Staffing requirements for Killarney House remain the subject of consideration in light of my Department's overall business needs and the approved pay framework for 2015. The final phase of restoration, refurbishment and new works at Killarney House is currently ongoing and, accordingly, the nature and extent of posts required, including their budgetary implications, have yet to be finally determined. I can confirm, however, that funding has been made available to appoint a horticultural assistant to assist with landscape works to the grounds and ornamental gardens of Killarney House. The precise timing and duration of this appointment has not yet been finalised.

With regard to the opening date for the facility, I expect that the various elements of works will be completed at different stages during the year and it is intended that these amenities will be open to the public as soon as possible afterwards. Landscaping work to the grounds and ornamental gardens is progressing and a contract for the interpretation phase had been awarded.