Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Apr 1994

Vol. 441 No. 1

Written Answers. - Support for Protection of Physical Heritage.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

40 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the encouragement or support available to individuals and communities interested in preserving, restoring and opening to the public structures, sites and buildings of archaeological interest throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

My objective is to have legislation enacted as early as possible to establish a statutory heritage council whose functions would include the provision of encouragement and support for the protection of the physical heritage in co-operation with public and private bodies and individuals. Good progress is being made with the preparation of the Bill which I hope to have published during the current session.

The present non-statutory National Heritage Council has responsibility for recommending grants in respect of heritage projects, including archaeological interests, for my approval.

The council's functions are: to formulate policies and priorities to identify, protect, preserve, enhance and increase awareness of Ireland's heritage; to promote among the general public an interest and pride in our heritage and to facilitate the appreciation and enjoyment of it; and to work closely with and to make recommendations to Government Departments, planning authorities, public bodies and State companies in relation to all matters coming within the council's general area of responsibility and to ensure the co-ordination of all activities in the heritage field.