Vol. 557 No. 5
210 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he proposes to carry out an assessment of endangered ruins or sites with a view to the development of such areas for educational and tourism purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22967/02]
There are more than 120,000 recorded monuments in the country. These range from small enclosures to large castles and with the exception of some 740, all are found on private lands. Of the 740 in State care, some 55 have a guide service. While these sites are preserved and presented primarily as examples of excellence in the conservation of our built heritage they also play an important role as an educational resource and in promoting tourism. The NDP programme for investment in national monuments is under way and this will address conservation work at a number of the 720 sites in state care. There is no proposal to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the sites not in State care for development purposes.
