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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Feb 1992

Vol. 415 No. 8

Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - National Heritage Council.

Jim Higgins

Question:

17 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Taoiseach if he has satisfied himself with the work of the National Heritage Council; and if he has any intention to (a) change its terms of office and (b) expand its membership.

I am aware that the council have been doing excellent work in aiding heritage conservation across the wide spectrum of their terms of reference and in aiding the archaeological Discovery Programme. I intend to take an early opportunity to inform myself more fully about their work.

The major issue arising in regard to the National Heritage Council is its future statutory status and I will be considering that aspect in due course. I am not aware that the issues mentioned by the Deputy require reconsideration.

Is the Taoiseach aware that the National Heritage Council deal with all aspects of heritage? I am talking about archaeology, architecture, museums and wildlife. Is he also aware that the Wildlife Advisory Council, who were obliged to be set up under section 13 of the 1976 Act, have been redundant for a number of years and that there is a major need to re-establish this council?

I can assure the Deputy that I will look into the issues he has raised.

May I ask the Taoiseach in doing so to take particular cognisance of the fact that the failure to establish the advisory council means, first, that a number of bodies who would regard themselves as having a legitimate advisory role have not been consulted and, second, that this has led to a formal complaint against Ireland being made to the European Commission and that the file is rapidly growing?

The Deputy can take it from me that I will acquaint myself fully with the matters he has raised in my review of what is happening in relation to the National Heritage Council.

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