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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 31 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 2

Written Answers. - Archaeological Sites.

Michael Bell

Question:

48 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if her attention has been drawn to the claims made by the National Heritage Council that one in ten of Ireland's archaeological sites and monuments were being wiped out every decade; the steps she is taking to address the concerns of the Heritage Council in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15309/00]

I am aware of the claims made by the Heritage Council and indeed I welcomed the publication of its report on this subject as it brings a new focus to the problem of the destruction of archaeological monuments which has been a source of concern to me and to the archaeological survey of Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department.

I have previously acknowledged that this problem exists, notwithstanding the significant legislative powers which are available to me. I am continuing to examine means by which the services provided by my Department's conservation rangers could be extended to include some monitoring of archaeological sites as well as a repositioning of the archaeological resources in my Department so as to provide a more localised service that brings it closer to those heritage sites that we are endeavouring to preserve and protect. In addition, I am exploring means by which local authorities would assume an enhanced role in the protection of the archaeological heritage at a local level while I also see scope for developing alliances with other local interest groups whereby they could assist in keeping a watch over archaeological sites and monuments at the local level. These are initiatives which I intend to explore further in consultation with the Heritage Council in the context of the proposed national heritage plan, which I will be publishing later this year.
I would emphasise, however, that all known archaeological sites and monuments have been entered in the record of monuments established under section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994. Notice of the publication of the record for each county has been given in the local newspapers and copies of the record are available in public libraries, local authority planning offices and in certain Teagasc offices. Landowners should, if they have not already done so, check the record to see if any recorded monuments are on their land as they are required to give two months written notification to Dúchas prior to carrying out works at, or in relation to, a recorded monument.
I also see the need for better education and public awareness, which I am constantly striving to achieve through various initiatives, including an annual heritage newsletter to all primary schools. This and other initiatives will be pursued further in the context of the heritage plan. The plan will also be concentrating on initiatives to provide better training for all those who work for the protection of the heritage to ensure that they are equipped with sufficient levels of knowledge and practical training to allow them to carry out their roles to the greatest advantage. Finally, as the Deputy will be aware, the principal legislative protection for archaeological sites and monuments is contained in the National Monuments Acts, 1930 to 1994. Notices were placed in the main national newspapers on 15 November 1999 inviting submissions from interested parties in relation to a proposed review of the National Monuments Acts, 1930 to 1994, and related legislation.
As the public consultation phase of the review is now complete, it is my intention that the review will lead to the drafting of consolidated and, where appropriate, revised and extended legislation for the protection of the archaeological, architectural and historic heritage.
I am confident through these various measures that the destruction of our archaeological sites can be arrested.
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