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Minister Phil Hogan and Minister of State Brian Hayes launch Kilkenny Castle Day - 11 March 2012

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Phil Hogan TD and Brian Hayes TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today launched Kilkenny Castle Day as part of the OPW's Public Access Programme.

Minister Hogan said at the launch: "I am pleased to be here today, to attend this wonderful showcase of the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. I commend the OPW for this wonderful initiative and the free entertainment that they are providing for the public throughout the day."

Minister Hayes said, “Kilkenny Castle plays a vital role in the socio-economic fabric of this region and represents an iconic image for Kilkenny. Open all-year-round the Castle attracts almost 200,000 visitors annually.”

The Minister continued “I am pleased to announce that a very exciting programme of free events has been arranged both to entertain and to enlighten all the family today. Along with musical performances, it is worth noting that among other things, visitors will have the opportunity to view several historical exhibitions.”

The Minister concluded: “Kilkenny Castle and Park are among the finest of the ‘jewels-in-the-crown’ of OPW’s heritage sites in Ireland. While resources remain a challenge, we are committed to providing a top-class heritage attraction which will be a constant source of pride to the people of Kilkenny and a focus for the promotion of tourism.”