Vol. 513 No. 3
107 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if the use of wildlife rangers to monitor archaeological monuments is adequate or workable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2339/00]
112 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the proposals, if any, she has to appoint archaeological wardens to police national monuments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2340/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 112 together.
In cases where reports of interference to monuments are received, my Department requests the assistance of the Garda Síochána to investigate. Additionally, as resources permit, it arranges an archaeological inspection and report.
Furthermore, it is currently examining ways whereby with regard to archaeological sites conservation rangers and local authorities and local interest groups may be able to assist in monitoring changes to heritage sites.
110 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the strategy, if any, of Dúchas towards the preservation of the Rock of Dunamaise, Portlaoise, County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2195/00]
The work carried out to date by my Department at Dunamase consists primarily of archaeological excavation which had to be undertaken to expand the knowledge and history of the site and to clarify the purpose and sequence of the structures which survive there so that an informed judgment could be made as to how the conservation works were to proceed. On the basis of the information gleaned from these excavations, it has been possible to prepare a schedule for a pilot programme of conservation works which it is hoped to commence this year. The result of this pilot programme of conservation works will allow for a full specification and schedule of works to be prepared as well as a working methodology to be established. It is envisaged that these works will continue over the next three years.
The long-term objectives for the site are the conservation of all masonry structures; safety standards for visitors; presentation and maintenance of the site including floodlighting; and provision of information for visitors.
