Fota House needs Government funding to stave off closure
Fota House in Carrigtwohill, Co Cork, a 76-room mansion set amid 780 acres of manicured lawns and exotic trees, is in financial crisis, according to the secretary of the trust which runs it.
Former MEP Professor Tom Raftery said attractions such as Farmleigh House in Dublin’s Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo had received 57 million in capital investment from the Government in the last seven years. In comparison, the 19th century Co Cork mansion had received just 1.5m. Prof Raftery said that, while business was picking up at the stately home, the Government needed to invest at least 200,000 per annum for it to survive. “Insurance costs alone this year were 93,000. You have to add on the cost of heating, which is phenomenal. We have had successful functions, including weddings and corporate dinners, but we’re not getting enough,” said Professor Raftery.
He said that, apart from a financial contribution, the Government needed to play a greater role in the running of Fota House by ensuring that exhibitions of paintings from the National Gallery could be held there.
The issue was also raised yesterday at a Cork County Council meeting, where it was agreed to lobby the Government for funding for the upkeep of the house.
The calls were led by Councillor Aileen Pyne (FG) and Councillor Art Supple (FF) who said those responsible for maintaining Fota House had been “ploughing a lone furrow” since the 1970s.
“It’s a great tourist attraction. More than 80,000 people called to the gardens last year and 25,000 to the house. It’s time Government take an active role in funding the facility,” said Mr Supple.
Councillor Annette McNamara (FF) said Fota House would be an ideal venue for meetings when Ireland assumes the presidency of the EU next January.
She said the house could also be a focal point for celebrations in 2005 when Cork will hold the title of European Capital of Culture.
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