Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 1

Written Answers. - National Monuments.

John V. Farrelly

Question:

194 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the statue of St. Patrick on the Hill of Tara was removed for repair some time ago with the intention of replacing it; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this statue has not been replaced; if she will arrange for an immediate investigation in order to have the statue replaced in its rightful position on this ancient site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13551/98]

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

I am aware that a competition for the replacement of the statue at an appropriate site at Tara was held among reputable Irish artists. The five entries received were displayed at Tara and the views of the public obtained.

A recommendation was made by a selection committee, which comprised representatives of the local community, the Arts Council, the Association of Artists in Ireland, the Office of Public Works and my Department. This recommendation was accepted and the winner of the competition announced.

The local community subsequently rejected the selected design and commenced negotiations with my Department on a possible alternative solution. I received representations about this matter some time ago and met a deputation from the local community. As a result of that meeting, efforts are being made by my Department to arrive at a mutually satisfactory solution.