Michael Ferris
Question:108 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Finance the plans the Office of Public Works have for the urgent renovation of Cormac's Chapel at the Rock of Cashel; and if moneys have been approved for these works.
Written Answers. - Rock of Cashel, Tipperary, Monument.
A programme of conservation works has been in progress at Cormac's Chapel since 1985. The overall plan involves conservation of the wall paintings, the cleaning, repairing and conserving of masonry, some replacement of stonework, repairing the arch of the south door, fitting doors and windows, laying a floor to the croft, and providing appropriate heating and lighting.
The works are being carried out with funding voted annually by the Oireachtas for the Office of Public Works. A contribution of £30,957.36 was received from the EC in 1987/88 under the EC programme of "Support for Pilot Projects to conserve the Community's Architectural Heritage".
Experts engaged by the Council of Europe have advised that, in the interests of protecting the wall paintings, the work should be spread over a long period of years so as to reduce the moisture levels on a gradual basis.