One of Kildare's most treasured historical attractions, Maynooth Castle, received just 14 visitors a day during the summer months.
The castle was open to the public from June 6th to September 26th, but only managed to attract just over 1,300 tourists.
Labour TD Emmet Stagg has called on the Government to begin Phase Two of restoration works on the castle. These were shelved in 2002. He believes the work is vital for the future of the castle. Deputy Stagg obtained the figures following an inquiry to the Minister for State, Mr Tom Parlon. "I am not surprised at the visitor numbers given the minimal facilities provided under Phase One of the restoration works, which involved the development of the ground-floor vaulted areas for exhibition purposes," Mr Stagg said.
He said he would continue to push the Minister for the Environment, Mr Roche, to sanction the works.
He said the aim of the restoration work was to secure and preserve the castle for future generations.