Archaeological Sites.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2004

Tuesday, 27 January 2004

Questions (844)

Billy Timmins

Question:

962 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to an application from a group (details supplied) in County Wicklow to Dúchas for a prevention order of similar status to that given to the Rathnagree and Rathcoran sites in west Wicklow; the steps he is taking to ensure the preservation of this site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1506/04]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

In December 2003 my Department became aware of unauthorised works at the site referred to. Since then archaeologists from my Department have attended on-site meetings with the gardaí and the landowner. Recent inspections have indicated that no further interference with the site has occurred. My Department will consider further whether other steps are necessary to ensure the continued protection of the site.