Vol. 482 No. 2
25 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the legislative measures, if any, she will introduce for the conservation of our built environment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17333/97]
59 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the proposals, if any, she has to protect the national architectural heritage; the estimated cost per annum of these proposals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17332/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 59 together.
My colleague, Deputy Dempsey, Minister for the Environment and Local Government, and I, are currently preparing, and will shortly be bringing forward for consideration by Government, a package of legislative, administrative and financial proposals, based on the report of the Interdepartmental Working Group on Strengthening the Protection of the Architectural Heritage, to enhance the protection of this important aspect of our heritage.
The Deputy will understand that it would not be proper for me to comment on the costs of proposals prior to their finalisation and submission to Government for consideration. When the package of proposals is submitted to Government for consideration, detailed costings will, of course, be included.
In addition, the Minister for the Environment and Local Government is also engaged in a review of existing planning legislation, which may of course have implications for further strengthening the protection of the architectural heritage.
