Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 April 2019
252. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to unique or valuable artefacts discovered at various locations nationally over the past ten years; the location in which they are now stored or displayed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17914/19]
View answerI am aware that the rich history of Ireland gives rise to archaeological finds on a regular basis. The most significant recent find was the Tullydonnell hoard of gold objects in Co Donegal.
The National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 sets out the responsibilities and procedures for archaeological finds in the State.
All discoveries are to be notified to the National Museum of Ireland and those items may be retained by the Museum for the national collections.
Arrangements for display or loan of discovered artefacts are considered by the National Museum of Ireland, having regard to curatorial responsibilities and public interest.
