I propose to take Questions Nos. 238 to 240, inclusive, together.
The principal source of information in relation to the number of archaeological sites registered in County Kildare is the record of monuments and places for County Kildare which lists the number of recorded sites at 1,628. Officials from Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department are currently undertaking an archaeological survey of the county. The fieldwork for this survey is nearing completion. This survey will, when completed, provide more up-to-date data on the quantity and type of sites in the county.
It is not possible to quantify the numbers of sites where archaeological excavations have taken place since the foundation of the State. The Deputy will be aware that my Department licences archaeological investigations and excavations, primarily in response to development and so far this year my Department has issued 257 excavation licences.