asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a wealth of Bronze Age heritage exists at Mohaun Fort, Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare; and whether he will have discussions with Coillte Teo. and a person (details supplied) with a view to its controlled exploration in 1990.
Written Answers. - County Clare Archaeological Site.
100.
The Commissioners of Public Works consider Mooghaun Hillfort to be a very important monument. Shortly after the Department of Forestry (now Coillte Teo.) acquired the site in 1958 they agreed on a planting scheme with the Commissioners to avoid interference with the archaeological remains. It is the general policy of the Commissioners to preserve such sites intact for future generations. An archaeological excavation would only be considered if it were proposed as a research project under the auspices of the Royal Irish Academy. Thus they do not propose to initiate discussions on controlled exploration at Mooghaun in 1990.