Fine Gael Kerry Senator and Seanad Chief Whip, Paul Coghlan, has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaelteacht, Jimmy Deenihan, of the awarding of a €1.1m contract to allow for the latest phase of the restoration of Killarney House and Gardens.

"I have been campaigning to have Killarney House restored to its former glory for many years and I was therefore delighted when the Government last year announced that plans had been approved to restore and recreate the historical 18th century layout of the exterior of the House.

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"Minister Deenihan has now announced the latest phase of the project; a €1.1 million contract has been awarded to local firm, Ned O'Shea & Sons, to carry out hard landscaping works including the reinstatement of historic pathways, repairing historic gates, the installation of new fencing and other works on the grounds.

"This is the first phase of works on the former Pleasure Grounds and Gardens. The restoration project will create landscaped areas that merge with the natural environment of Killarney National Park and will provide links between the town and this incredibly scenic area.

"This will serve as a beautiful backdrop to the restored Killarney House, which will act as a Visitor Centre and will include a new extension which will house an interpretative centre and exhibition space.

"Work on restoring and landscaping the Pleasure Grounds and Gardens is due to commence in the coming days. When completed, Killarney House will act as yet another major visitor attraction and will no doubt be one of the most popular locations in the region."

(CD/JP)