Fota House closes on weekdays over lack of funds

THE financial crisis surrounding one of Ireland's best-known stately homes deepened yesterday, when management announced they had been left with no alternative but to close it to the public on weekdays.

A crisis meeting held at Fota House in Carrigtwohill, County Cork, led to the announcement that the 19th century mansion would close on weekdays from Monday, November 3.

Professor Tom Raftery, secretary of the trust which manages the house, said the lack of Government funding had led to the serious situation.

"We did our best. The staff we have here worked their hearts out, but the overheads are just enormous," Professor Raftery said. "It's a very sad day for me. I've put 28 years of voluntary work into Fota. I'm 70 years old now and I don't think there's much more I can do. However, I can look back on achievements such as establishing the wild life park, saving the gardens, and restoring the house," he said.

The house is likely to reopen temporarily to coincide with the creation of a seasonal ice rink on the grounds from November 30 - January 11. However, after that it is likely to close on weekdays again, unless the Government steps in and takes a major financial and administrative role in the day to day running of the house.

In the meantime the house will remain open on Sundays. "At the moment Sundays and functions are viable, but opening on week days isn't," Professor Raftery said.

Six full-time jobs at the house are at risk.

Cork County manager Maurice Moloney said it would be a disaster if Fota House couldn't be maintained for public enjoyment in the future.

"Cork County Council and Cork City Council have been providing financial support to Fota House for a long number of years.

"Through the good efforts of people like Professor Tom Raftery the house is now in a condition which makes it an asset, which the Government should take responsibility for," Mr Moloney said.