Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Mar 1996

Vol. 463 No. 2

Written Answers. - Urban Vernacular Architecture.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

18 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht whether the architectural audit currently being prepared will include an overview of Ireland's urban vernacular architecture, including industrial architecture; the proposals, if any, he has for the preservation of selected buildings in this category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5865/96]

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

The compilation of the national inventory of architectural heritage currently being undertaken by the National Monuments and Historic Properties Service encompasses all categories of buildings, including urban vernacular architecture and industrial architecture. To date some buildings have been brought into State care as part of the heritage portfolio such as Newmills in County Donegal and Bunadubber Mill in County Mayo. As the inventory for each area is completed a copy is forwarded to the planning authorities in order to facilitate the preservation of these buildings through the planning process.

The Deputy will also be aware that, as I have on several occasions indicated in this House, I and my colleague, Deputy Howlin, Minister for the Environment, established, in February 1995, pursuant to commitments in the policy agreement A Government of Renewal, an interdepartmental working group made up of officials of our Departments to examine and report back with recommendations on improving the protection of listed buildings, including vernacular and industrial buildings where appropriate, placing the system of listed buildings on a statutory basis, introducing incentives for the proper upkeep and maintenance of such buildings and undertaking a full national architectural audit.