asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline measures being taken to save material of archaeological interest unearthed in the course of work on the Boyne drainage scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Archaeological Survey.
8.
A detailed archaeological survey of the Boyne catchment area is being carried out in advance of work on the arterial drainage scheme and all sites of archaeological interest are being recorded.
Special arrangements have been made for close liaison during the course of the work between the drainage engineers, officers of the national parks and monuments branch and of the National Museum. This ensures that any archaeological sites which may be affected by the drainage works are inspected and that the discovery of all artifacts is reported to the National Museum. There are standing instructions to employees on arterial drainage schemes regarding materials of archaeological interest discovered in the course of the works and it is the practice to hand such finds to the National Museum for examination and custody.
How many staff were involved in the archaeological survey carried out in advance of the work?
While not having that exact information available I shall give some extra information to Deputies which may be of help. Copies of maps prepared in connection with the archaeological survey of the Boyne catchment area showing the location of all known monuments were furnished to the engineers who were requested to keep a sharp lookout for any new and unrecorded sites. In addition an officer with a knowledge of engineering and archaeology has been appointed to act as liaison officer between the national parks and monuments branch and the drainage engineers. Any finds which have come to light have been brought to the notice of the National Museum and I understand a number of such finds have already been handed over to the National Museum.
I understand that all interested local bodies are very pleased with the conscientious work carried out by the board's employees in this matter. I hope the Minister will ensure that full professional archaeological assistance is available to them at all times.
We have appointed a special man for that purpose.