The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan T.D., has announced the purchase by her Department of a parcel of land adjacent to Ballinafad Castle, Co Sligo, a national monument in the Guardianship of the Minister.
This purchase will allow for safe visitor access without passing over private property, as well as convenient OPW access to the national monument that will facilitate a programme of consolidation and repair.
This proposed purchase is consistent with the Department’s policy of acquiring property to promote access to and presentation of, national monuments and assists the Department and the OPW with related operational requirements.
Minister Madigan said:“I am delighted to announce the purchase of land at Ballinafad Castle, Co Sligo. This purchase will improve accessibility for visitors to the castle and will give my Department and the OPW required access to the national monument in order to facilitate a programme of consolidation and repair at the castle.”
The news has been welcomed by Senator Frank Feighan who has also welcomed an allocation of €132,000 in Leader funding for the refurbishment of St. Ronan’s Hall in Keadue.
“I am delighted to confirm this funding which will go towards phase one refurbishment works involving works to the roof, windows and doors, and toilets.
“This funding, approved by my colleague Michael Ring, Minister for Rural and Community Development, is very welcome news for Keadue.
“I want to commend everyone involved in this important development for the village and surrounding areas.
“LEADER funding represents an enormous opportunity for rural businesses and communities that are in need of investment and I want to see the programme continuing to grow and make a difference for Rural Ireland over the coming years.”
