asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that diving is now in progress on the Armada wreck, or wrecks, in Kinnagoe Bay, County Donegal; that important artefacts have been found; that these may be raised in the very near future, or that some have been raised, without proper supervision of the National Museum and without the arrangements being made by the National Museum for the important work of conservation; that there is a danger that the artefacts would be taken out of the jurisdiction and lost to the National Museum; if he will make the necessary arrangements to ensure that the State's ownership and interest in the finds is safeguarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Donegal Armada Wreck.
40.
I am aware that diving took place recently at the site of an Armada wreck at Kinnagoe Bay, County Donegal, that a bronze cannon was recovered and that other objects of archaeological interest were located on the sea and left in situ. I am aware that the operation which resulted in the raising of the cannon was carried out without archaeological supervision. ]However, I understand that the person who is in possession of the cannon has indicated to an officer of the National Museum that he is willing to give the cannon to the museum. I am advised that the Commissioners of Public Works have now made a preservation order in respect of the site to ensure that no further unauthorised excavation or recovery work takes place at the site. The gun recovered was immediately reported to the receiver of wreck for the area who has authority to deal with the question of ownership and to ensure that the gun is not taken out of the jurisdiction.