Fota a ‘flagship’ example of trust’s potential

FOTA HOUSE has been hailed by Environment Minister John Gormley as a model of how Ireland’s historical properties can be secured as heritage assets.

The minister was speaking on his first visit to Fota House since it was taken over last December by the Irish Heritage Trust (IHT).

He said there were a large number of properties throughout the country that would benefit greatly, with the support of Government funding, from coming under the umbrella of the IHT.

With refurbishment work being finalised at Fota House, Mr Gormley said the site was a “flagship” example of how similar properties can benefit if they are transferred to the ownership of the IHT.

“I suppose the key word is possession. This is a start and it is only a start of something which has enormous potential, not just here at Fota but elsewhere, and I want the IHT to know I am with them all the way.

“This is only the beginning of the journey for the Irish Heritage Trust. I look forward to the trust building on the success it had in 2007 to acquire other properties,” he said.

Mr Gormley also encouraged private individuals to take advantage of tax relief available to those who donate art for public display.

He said the art work on display in Fota House, many coming from the original Smith Barry Collection, boosted its appeal as a tourist attraction and he hoped other private collectors would follow suit.

“This is evidence of what can be done all around the country. The success of the trust relies on the generosity of others. I hope other potential donors will take advantage of this. I firmly believe heritage sites must be cared for.

“We have in Cobh a huge potential for people to visit this property. 360,000 people a year visit the wildlife park compared with 800,000 who come to Fota House which shows the potential,” Mr Gormley said.

IHT chairman David Davies echoed Mr Gormley’s views and said the acquisition and restoration of Fota House was an important first step for the trust.

The IHT was established in July 2006 and took over responsibility for Fota House and the surrounding gardens three months ago.

Mr Davies said it was hoped to add other properties to the IHT portfolio over the next few years.

“These are exciting, yet challenging, times for the trust and we have great plans to reinvigorate this special property and contribute to prosperity in this part of Cork,” he added.