Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 May 2021
238. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn to the current efforts to obtain UNESCO world heritage status for the Rock of Cashel; the supports his Department plans to provide in relation to the bid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27185/21]
View answer239. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has specific funding and staff responsible for securing UNESCO heritage status for historic sites in Ireland; if so, the budget for this work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27186/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 238 and 239 together.
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Questions Nos. 398 and 399 of 18 May 2021 which set out in detail my Department's engagement with, and advice and supports to, relevant local bodies in relation to the ongoing review of the current UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
That reply also clarified that the closing date for applications for inclusion in the updated Tentative List is 30 June 2021 and that it is anticipated that an application will be forthcoming in relation to the Rock of Cashel as part of a Royal Sites of Ireland nomination.
Responsibility within my Department for World Heritage matters is vested in the National Monument Service where it benefits from the wide range of professional and operational expertise, and the financial and other resources, that are available for the promotion and safeguarding of our archaeological heritage.
