Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 2

Written Answers. - Archaeological Sites.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

134 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will have arrangements made to assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8, who has a site behind her house which has been earmarked for housing but which has been designated for excavation due to the fact that an abbey ruin has been found on the site, in view of the fact that she was informed that the site is not being excavated due to a lack of funding and meanwhile rubble for the site is being thrown into her backyard and she is literally terrified of being stoned; and if she will sanction funding for the excavation and, in the interim, ensure the site is tidied up and rendered secure and safe in order that this person can enjoy the safety and security of her own home. [15937/97]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

I understand that Dublin Corporation has entered into negotiations with the owner to acquire the site. Until these negotiations and necessary legal formalities have been completed, the site remains in private ownership, which precludes both my Department and Dublin Corporation from carrying out any works there. In response to an earlier inquiry from the person in question, my Department has been in contact with the corporation to see whether the developer can be prevailed upon to secure the site.