asked the Minister for Finance the action the Commissioners for Public works can take to ensure that national monuments are kept in a safe condition and preserved in a condition worthy of their historical value; whether they are in a position to offer financial assistance to the private owners of national monuments who may not have the means to preserve them in a safe and worthy condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - National Monuments Preservation.
25.
The powers available to the Commissioners of Public Works to ensure the preservation of national monuments are contained in the National Monuments Act, 1930 and the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1954.
Under the terms of the above Acts the Commissioners are not empowered to offer financial assistance to the private owners of national monuments. Recently announced proposals for new legislation — which will strengthen and extend the existing powers of the Commission — will be presented to the Government next week.