Blocked By Red Tape: Senator Says Councils Need Clarity On Accepting Donated Land And Buildings

Friday, 11 July 2025 12:16

By Martin Osborne

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Fiona O Loughlin said red tape is often blocking generous donations that could benefit local communities, especially in areas where facilities for arts, recreation or education are badly needed.

There has been a call for a clear national policy on how local authorities handle gifts from philanthropists - such as land, buildings, or other assets.

Senator O’Loughlin pointed to a past case in Kildare town where Magee Barracks was offered as a gift to the council, but turned down.

The site was later sold to a developer, and the Department of Education had to buy it back to build a school.

She said when gifts are offered with no strings attached, local authorities should be supported - not restricted - in accepting them.

She has asked the Minister for Housing and Local Government, James Browne, to come before the Seanad to clarify national policy on such donations.

More from Local News

Not Needed For Health Reasons: HSE Reponds To Possible Sale Of Teach na nDaoine Building In Kilcullen

The HSE said it conducted an internal review after the leaseholder handed back possession, and concluded that the property was “not required at present for health service delivery” in the area.
Lung Cancer Risk As Nine Out Of Ten Kildare Homes Remain Untested For Radon Gas

Parts of Kildare are officially classified as high-radon areas, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Illegal Parking In Disabled Spaces: 566 Fines Issued In Kildare-Carlow Garda Division Since January 2024

New figures show that between January 2024 and June 2025, a total of 566 fixed charge notices were issued in the Kildare/Carlow Garda Division for parking in disabled bays without a valid permit.
Only National Road Out Of Dublin "Never Upgraded": TD Presses For N81 Upgrade In Dáil

Raising the issue during a Dáil debate, Wicklow Fine Gael TD Edward Timmins cited multiple studies identifying the N81 as “one of the most dangerous roads in the country.”
Kildare North TD Aidan Farrelly Welcomes Party’s Backing Of Catherine Connolly For Áras Bid

Kildare North Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly has welcomed the move, saying Ms Connolly has been a strong voice for peace, human rights, and progressive causes.
Ex-Principal Of Leinster Senior College Loses Dismissal Case Over Grinds Venture And Shredded Diaries

An internal investigation had been launched after the school learned he was running what it considered a rival grinds business.
Crash In Dunlavin Leaves Woman Hospitalised With Serious Injuries

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area between 5.30 and 6.30pm to contact Naas Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line.
Calls Grow For More Free Sunscreen Dispensers Across Kildare

Audio

A sunscreen trial in Monasterevin has been described as a big success.