Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 Nov 2001

Vol. 543 No. 4

Written Answers. - Archaeological Sites.

Ivor Callely

Question:

26 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the level of understanding in the archaeological excavations in the medieval core of Dublin; the consideration which has been given to generate interest in primary and second level schools in the Dublin area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26556/01]

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

As I indicated in my reply to the Deputy's Question No. 33 of 11 April 2001, no survey or research has been carried out on the level of interest in archaeological excavations of medieval Dublin. The historic core of Dublin is of international importance. This is something that I believe is well known not only amongst academics and others with a specific interest in the subject but also amongst the general public. The knowledge and understanding of medieval Dublin gleaned from archaeological excavations has been very valuable in allowing my Department and others to devise strategies for the protection of archaeological heritage generally. Where my Department does commission research on heritage sites it invariably feeds into the interpretation of the site and such research has generated positive feedback.

Much of the archaeological excavation in Dublin in recent years has been development-led. The priority with such excavations is to preserve archaeological remains by record. I understand though, that Temple Bar Properties, who carried out the most recent excavations in this area under licence from my Department, have produced a series of summary reports on the results of their excavations. This publication is entitled Archaeology in Temple Bar.

Artefacts from various medieval excavations are included in the permanent exhibitions on findings from the Viking period in the National Museum of Ireland. Material is also on display at a number of sites around the city including St. Audoen's Church in High Street, which is in the care of my Department, the Undercroft at Dublin Castle and Dublinia and the Viking Adventure Centre, the later two being operated by Dublin Tourism. Primary and second level students from all over the country visit these exhibitions and displays regularly on school and educational tours.