Vol. 458 No. 8
33 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht if he will liaise with other Government Departments to ensure that ancient crafts are preserved and promoted, both on a cultural and economic basis. [17786/95]
The ancient crafts, to which the Deputy refers, form an important and integral part of the cultural heritage of this country. As such, I am anxious that the presentation and promotion of such crafts should receive appropriate consideration.
In that regard and in so far as it falls within my remit given my responsibility for museums, it is envisaged that the National Museum in its new facility at Collins Barracks will include collections of artefacts from the rich heritage of craftsmanship in silver, glass, ceramics, clothing, furniture and other related crafts.
While plans in this area have not yet been fully developed the Collins Barracks development will eventually allow for the raising of the awareness of these occupations through the implementation of a programme of practical demonstrations of such craftsmanship in a new and exciting setting.
The National Monuments and Historic Properties (NMHP) Service, for which I am also responsible, is currently engaged in a number of initiatives both at national and European level relating to the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts, including cross-Border co-operation in relation to the use of thatch on vernacular buildings.
I understand that discussions have taken place between the various agencies, including the NMHP Service, with a view to preparing a national framework for training in architectural conservation skills. Such a framework would be the subject of consultations with all of the relevant Government Departments and agencies.
