asked the Taoiseach in view of his commitment to our heritage, if he will ensure adequate funds (details supplied) are made available from his Department to finalise the existing Viking dig at South Main Street, Wexford which has received national and international acclaim and is the first concrete evidence of Viking man in Wexford, to substantiate the claims of literature and folklore.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Viking Dig, Wexford.
3.
I understand that the National Heritage Council have received many applications for assistance from the funds available to them, including one in respect of this project.
The council are considering these applications at present in the context of their overall priorities for assistance.
I thank the Minister of State for his response. I am aware that there is an application to the National Heritage Council. In view of the fact that funds will have dried up by 18 November and that this is our most important Viking dig, with the possible exception of Wood Quay, could the Minister bring his immediate attention to bear on the matter and expedite a decision on the application? A sum of £28,000 is needed and that includes funding for the post-excavation work which is essential to make sense of the excellent work that has been done heretofore.
The matter is at present under consideration by the National Heritage Council. The Deputy will appreciate that the council met for the first time last month. Already they have had a second meeting and have divided into subcommittees to examine applications under various headings. It is up to the subcommittee to make a recommendation and then it is a matter for the Heritage Council. I will bring the Deputy's remarks to the attention of the council and I assure the House that this matter, along with several others, is getting the immediate attention of the Council.
Is the Minister aware that the private developer concerned, through his interest and support of the local community, has deferred his development for almost 12 months to date? Unless we are in a position to help and unless this Government are prepared to contribute towards the funding of this most vital Viking dig, we cannot hold up this man any longer. A very quick answer on it is essential. Is the Minister aware that Wexford Corporation have contributed £30,000, that Wexford County Council have contributed £5,000 and the local business community have contributed £12,000——
I am afraid the Deputy is embarking on a speech.
We are not asking the State for anything that we in Wexford are not prepared to give.
Order, the Deputy has made her point.
I am fully aware of the positive attitude adopted by the developer in this instance and we are very pleased with the attitude of developers throughout the country in similar situations. I am also aware of the commitment of both Wexford Corporation and County Council and of the people in the area. I will bring this to the attention of the Heritage Council.
Will we have an answer before 18 November?
Question No. 4, please.
That is a matter for the council.
It will be too late after that.