62. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if his Department has been involved in any discussions in relation to the future of Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara, County Galway; and if OPW staff have assessed the condition of the castle. [73542/26]

The Office of Public Works is responsible for the conservation, maintenance and presentation of over 780 National Monuments and 33 Historic Properties nationwide.

Dunguaire Castle was built around 1520, it is believed to have been built on the site of the Dún (or fort) of Guaire, a 6th century King of Aidhne. This gives the castle its name, Dún Guaire. The 16th-century castle is thought to have been a seat of the Ó hEidhin (O’Hyne) family, who were the regional rulers.

By the early 17th century, the castle was owned by the Martyn family, one of the wealthy and famous merchant ‘Tribes’ of Galway. The family owned the castle up until the 20th century.

In 1924,  Dunguaire was bought and repaired by Oliver St. John Gogarty, the famous surgeon and literary figure and in 1954 the castle was acquired by Christobel, Lady Ampthill who completed the restoration started by Oliver St. John Gogarty.

Subsequently the castle became the property of the Shannon Development Company and it was an important feature of its tourism offering, giving an insight into the lifestyle of the people who lived from 1520 to modern times.

As the Deputy is already aware, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage is responsible for the designation of National Monuments and the decision as to what properties come into care. While I cannot speak for the Minister, I understand that a range of factors are under consideration, including Dunguaire's historical and cultural significance, repair and conservation requirements and the availability of financial and operational resources to maintain and present the property to the public.

Recognising the exceptional heritage value of the Castle, I am happy to advise that my officials are engaging with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as they explore options regarding the potential acquisition of title of the castle by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

In recent weeks, heritage services staff from the OPW met on site with officials from the National Monuments Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. A detailed visual inspection was carried out. The OPW has identified that there are aspects of the Castle including the roof, the fire and security systems and Mechanical and Electrical installations that will require upgrading. Conservation repairs and interventions will also be required. All works will require ministerial consent from the Minister for Heritage.

If it is decided that Dunguaire Castle is to come into the care and title of the Minister for Heritage, the Office of Public Works will be charged with its conservation, care and presentation to the public and will require additional resources to address the complexity and range of works required.