Vol. 504 No. 1
23 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the reason the national parks and historic properties Bill is not considered to be a priority and is not being proceeded with; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11156/99]
While I consider that the provision of a satisfactory legal framework for our national parks and historic properties remains a necessity, I have decided that the issue is one to be developed within the context of the preparation of a national heritage plan, on which work is already under way. The plan will address the protection, conservation and presentation of the natural heritage, the architectural and archaeological heritage, the inland waterways of the State, and documentary and archival heritage. It will also review the existing situation in relation to the administrative and legislative arrangements for the national heritage and will set out strategies and actions for the future. I expect the national heritage plan to be published next year.
