Caring for State-held heritage

Madam, - Your edition of January 28th reported that Minister Eamon Ó Cuív has pledged his support for a project to restore a…

Madam, - Your edition of January 28th reported that Minister Eamon Ó Cuív has pledged his support for a project to restore a historic fort on Bere Island off the west Cork coast, with a view to developing it as a major tourist attraction.

Your edition of January 31st reported that the only daughter of John and Mary McShain, the American builders and philanthropists who gave much of the 25,000-acre Killarney Park to the State, has said the neglect of the historic Killarney House, her parents' home for 40 years, is "a disgrace". Ten years after being given to the State, the house, which dates from the early 18th century, has been left to fall apart and is being used by squatters. Speaking from her home in America, Pauline McShain said she would "very much" like to meet the Government over the issue and would like an explanation. She was sad and disillusioned with the Government, she said.

Would Minister Ó Cuív also pledge his support for the restoration and care of this and other neglected sites supposedly in the care of the State? - Yours, etc,

BOB WILSON,

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Flagmount,

Co Clare.