A fraction of Farmleigh’s cost needed

HAVING spent a whopping 42 million turning Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park into a plush hotel for visiting EU dignitaries, it behoves the Government to underwrite the survival of one of Ireland’s architectural and horticultural gems.

Fota Island in Cork harbour is recognised internationally for its magnificent gardens and arboretum, marvellous period house, superb wildlife park and stunning golf course.

But in contrast with the State's approach to Farmleigh, Fota has been treated as something of a Cinderella by a Dublin-oriented Coalition.

Re-opened last year after many vicissitudes, the Regency house and its restored gardens ranking among the finest in Europe have attracted thousands of visitors.

Now run by a trust, the operation is desperately short of capital. Unless the State is willing to put up a few hundred thousand euro needed to ensure its survival, Fota House is in danger of being closed next year. If that happens, the Government will stand indicted.