STATE SHOULD ACQUIRE LUGGALA ESTATE FOR THE PUBLIC

Labour Spokesperson on the Arts, Joan Burton TD, has called for the State to acquire the famous Luggala Estate, to ensure the public can continue to enjoy its beauty and attract tourists to the area.

The Guinness family ancestry home in Co.Wicklow has been put on the market, with a suggested €28 million price tag.

Deputy Burton commented:

“The Luggala Estate and its five thousand acres as immortalised by Seamus Heaney, is one of the most famous and photographed beauty spots in Ireland.

“The estate has been home for a long time to the founder of Claddagh Records, Garech Brown, whose contribution not just to ensuring the preservation of the estate, but also to Irish culture and music, has been outstanding.

“His stewardship of Luggala has also ensured that the vast majority of the estate, other than the specific area around the house, has become a favourite for both locals and tourists.

“This is undoubtedly one of the most unique estates in the country and if acquired for the people of Ireland, would undoubtedly grow in its popularity with tourists.

 “The worry would be that unless the State intervenes, Luggala could be swept up by a wealthy private investor, with all the uncertainty that might come with that in terms of access. State ownership would also ensure the pristine condition of the estate is maintained.

“This sale provides a unique opportunity to extend Wicklow’s National Park and to secure access for the public forever.”