asked the Minister for the Environment the reason sanction for the agreed purchase of Hope Castle and grounds in County Monaghan for development as a tourist amenity has been delayed; and whether there is any EEC funding involved in this deal.

There has been no undue delay in my Department in the consideration of the proposal by Monaghan County Council to acquire and develop Hope Castle and surrounding land. The formal proposals from the county council in this connection were received in my Department on 23 November 1981, and are currently under examination. I hope to be able to give a decision on the council's proposals in the near future. The question of financing the purchase of the property from the Special Border Areas Programme Fund which is financed jointly by the Exchequer and the Non-Quota Section of the European Regional Development Fund, is being actively considered.

When will the Minister be able to approve it?

I could not say at the moment.

Will it be a month or two months?

When the examinations are complete and I have a recommendation, I will make a decision.

It may not be in the immediate future?

I could not say.

Will it be this year?

I have a feeling it will be this year, but I could not give the precise date.

All depending on how things work out?

Yes.

Is the Minister aware that the local authority have received a very generous offer from the owner of Hope Castle and estate? In view of this would the Minister accept that the final decision should be expedited?

I am aware of the offer which has been made by the owner of this estate and I agree with the Deputy that it is generous. There will be no unnecessary delay in making a decision on this matter.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.