Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 April 2014
403. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reasons for delays in ensuring that repairs are carried out to a protected structure which was damaged by floods (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18777/14]
View answerWhile the site referred to by the Deputy is protected under the National Monuments Acts 1930-2004, it is not in my ownership or guardianship as Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Therefore, neither my Department nor the Office of Public Works is responsible for its conservation, repair or maintenance. However, as it is a recorded monument, any proposals for works at the site would need to be submitted to me, as Minister, in advance. My Department has been in contact with Cork County Council in relation to the works required on the site. I understand that the Council carried out an examination last year of the effects of flood damage at that time and prepared an archaeological assessment and specification for remedial works. However, it appears that further damage may have been sustained in the meantime, the extent of which has yet to be finally determined due to ground conditions. Accordingly, a revised and updated assessment needs to be produced by the Council.
My Department will provide the Council with any advice or guidance that may be required in relation to archaeological issues or the procedures under the National Monuments Acts.
