Vol. 537 No. 2
328 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the number of sites of archaeological or historical interest in respect of which archaeological excavations have taken place throughout the country; if such locations are currently open to tourists and students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16045/01]
It is not possible to quantify the number of sites where archaeological excavations have taken place since the foundation of the State. For this year alone over 480 excavation licences have been issued. Most excavations arise from development projects so the opportunities for the public to access and view them are very limited.
Dúchas, the Heritage Service of my Department, provides visitor services at over 70 sites, many of which deal with archaeological and historical themes.
