FF Hits Out At Arts Minister Over Future Of Russborough House

Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Minister for Arts for failing to secure the future of Russborough House in Co Wicklow.

Spokesperson on Arts and Culture Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD said that despite an initial breakthrough last June, Minister Heather Humphreys has failed to advance a long term plan to secure the future of the house.

Deputy Ó Fearghaíl said Russborough House is facing "serious funding issues" in the long run.


He said: "People have come forward who are willing to purchase the paintings and donate them to the National Gallery. This would ensure that they remain in the ownership of the Irish people, but this plan is only viable on the condition that 100 per cent tax relief can be introduced on a one off basis to allow the sale of the paintings proceed while at the same time resolving the dire financial situation at the house.

"However when I raised this issue with Minister Humphreys in the Dáil today she confirmed that she was unable to secure a commitment from Minister Noonan for the introduction of 100 per cent tax relief on a one off basis. This has left the future of Russborough House in doubt as, even with the sale of the paintings, it will continue to have a funding shortfall into the future."

(CD/MH)