Vol. 559 No. 6
235 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the intentions of Dúchas in relation to the monastery, high cross and archaeological site at Durrow, Tullamore, County Offaly; if commitments have been entered into by Dúchas in relation to this site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26853/02]
Under the national development plan, my Department envisages the provision of €1.27 million funding for the conservation and presentation of the church, graveyard and high cross at Durrow. Already this year, with the agreement of the landowners, work has been undertaken to protect the church from further deterioration. At this point my officials are engaged in detailed discussions with the landowners with a view to resolving all issues relating to the site.
236 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if Dúchas has responsibility for St. Brendan's old churchyard in Birr; if it will protect the existing buildings on the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26854/02]
My Department has no responsibility for the maintenance or restoration of St. Brendan's old churchyard in Birr, County Offaly, which is in the care of Offaly County Council. Relevant officials of my Department have, however, given technical advice to the local authority in relation to works it proposes to carry out at the site.
