Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Nov 1996

Vol. 471 No. 1

Written Answers. - Listed Buildings.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

149 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for the Environment whether information gathered in relation to listed buildings is currently compiled in a consistent and effective manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20236/96]

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Howlin)

The policy agreement, A Government of Renewal, contained a commitment to improving the protection for listed buildings. A working group made up of officials of my Department, the Department of Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht and the Office of Public Works was set up to examine the issues further and to report back with recommendations to me and my colleague, the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht. The report of the working group, entitled Strengthening the Protection of the Architectural Heritage, was published on 17 September.

The working group, in its examination of the various approaches taken by the planning authorities, found that there are inconsistencies in the extent and nature of listing throughout the country. In its recommendations, the group put forward a number of legislative, administrative and financial measures to address these and other deficiencies. The recommendations are now being examined by myself and the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, with a view to bringing forward appropriate proposals as soon as possible.