asked the Minister for Finance if it is now proposed to publish a report on the work carried out to date on the archaeological survey; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
23.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Archaeological Survey.
22.
asked the Minister for Finance the progress made during the past two years in the carrying out of the nationwide archaeological survey; and the number of persons employed by his Department at present on such work.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 23 together. During the past two years progress on the archaeological survey was made in Counties Westmeath, Cavan, Longford and Dublin. Four archaeologists and one draughtsman are engaged on the survey.
It is proposed to publish reports on the results of the survey but arrangements for publication are held up because of staff shortages. Even if adequate staff were available completion of the necessary work preparatory to publication would take a considerable time.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary indicate what counties have still to be surveyed?
The counties that are being surveyed are Louth, Monaghan, Meath, Westmeath, Longford, Cavan, Kildare and Dublin.
Did the Parliamentary Secretary say that because of staff shortages the publication was delayed?
Yes.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that a number of skilled personnel in archaeological work were left off in Dublin recently? Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider employing them to expedite the publication he is talking about?
That would be a matter for the Department of the Public Service.