asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, there are to dispose of Fort Meaghar at Camden, Crosshaven, County Cork; and if he will arrange to have a transfer to local tourist industries for development as an historical museum.

(Limerick West): It has been decided that Dún Uí Mheachair, otherwise known as Fort Camden, is surplus to my Department's requirements and arrangements are being made to have it vacated as soon as possible. No decision has yet been made as to the manner of its disposal.

Would the Minister not agree that given the location of this fort and the fact that next year is the 50th anniversary of the handing over of the fort, it would be very suitable if the fort was remodelled as a military and naval museum, opened to the public and given to Cork County Council or the tourist board to develop in that way?

(Limerick West): I agree and any worth-while proposals coming before me or my Department will be considered.

Will the Minister make a proposal to Cork County Council and Bord Fáilte telling them that in return for handing over the fort to them free of charge they should develop it as a military and naval museum for the country as a whole?

(Limerick West): I suggest that they make a proposal to my Department where it will be considered.

I am suggesting the reverse. Will the Minister approach the two bodies I have named and tell them he will hand them Fort Camden free of charge provided they develop it as a military and naval museum and as a tourist amenity? That would be the more appropriate way to do it. I am asking the Minister to look into this, to go to the Government to get a decision to do that especially as next year is the 50th anniversary of the handing over of that fort.

(Limerick West): It would be inappropriate for me to make the proposal because there could be other bodies involved. If the Deputy would ask the local authorities to make firm proposals to my Department they will be carefully considered.

Will the Minister accept this as a firm proposal and look at it positively?

(Limerick West): Any proposal which comes from the Deputy will be considered.

I am making such a proposal now, and it is on the record.

We will not resolve this matter in the House today.