A controversial conservation plan for one of Kilkenny's most important historical and architectural buildings, Rothe House, was launched yesterday by the Minister for the Environment, Mr Cullen.
The Minister said the plan would ensure the preservation of the building in Parliament Street, Kilkenny, for generations to come.
Built between 1594 and 1610, Rothe House was home to John Rothe Fitzpiers, a wealthy merchant and comprises three houses and two courtyards.
It was purchased by Kilkenny Archaeological Society in 1962 and restored and opened to the public in 1966.
The conservation plan has 34 policies to be implemented in what Mr Cullen described as an ambitious programme requiring the commitment of all those involved.
"Its success depends on the acceptance by major stakeholders of [the house's] significance, its vulnerability and the range of policies set forth to mitigate the vulnerability," he added.
The plan envisages that Rothe House will be turned into a museum depicting life in a merchant's home during the first half of the 17th century.
There has been considerable concern among members of the archaeological society about this part of the plan.
Mr Cullen said the successful implementation of the plan depended on its principles being adopted in their entirety.
"The archaeological society in its wisdom realises that the issues it has identified facing Rothe House are essentially management issues.
"In that context, I am pleased to note that the society intends to establish a wholly owned operating company which will undertake the future management and development of Rothe House on behalf of the society," he said.
He acknowledged the contribution of the Heritage Council in providing financial support to enable preparation of the plan. He also congratulated Ms Mary Hanna of the Heritage Council and Fr Seán O'Doherty and Ms Una Hughes of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society.