The National Conservation & Heritage Group are deeply saddened that a gem of Cork’s heritage and history has been lost to fire.
With ownership of property comes responsibility, with ownership of protected historic buildings come added responsibilities, as they should be held in care and in good order for the enjoyment of future generations, however the ultimate responsibility falls on Cork City Council who have a duty of care under the Derelict Site Act 1990 to take all reasonable steps, including the exercising of statutory powers, to ensure that any land or buildings situated in their functional area does not become or continue to be a derelict site.
As the definition of a derelict site as set out in legislation means any land which detracts, or is likely to detract, to a material degree from the amenity, character or appearance of land in the neighbourhood, Cork City Council have a lot of catching up to do with regard to this matter, but, as was the case with the historic building that was the home of George Boole, the city council have proved that they are capable of carrying out their responsibilities when they have a mind to.