Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 November 2023
190. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the position regarding the OPW commissioned report on the redevelopment of Clonmacnoise monastic site. [50623/23]
View answer191. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he will request that the OPW include the principles of Just Transition and wider community benefit when planning the redevelopment of the Clonmacnoise monastic site (details supplied). [50624/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 190 and 191 together.
Following an open tender process, OPW has appointed a multi-disciplinary professional team to undertake a study of the Clonmancnoise National Monument with a view to making recommendations for its future development so it can continue to actively contribute to the local tourism and business economy while retaining its key status as an iconic National Monument site.
This team has been working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Local Authority, Community Groups and relevant State Agencies including Fáilte Ireland. In line with inter-agency objectives, the teams have in particular been working to develop visitor experiences and facilities whilst ensuring opportunities exist for supporting local enterprise and infrastructure in Shannonbridge and surrounding areas. The development opportunities offered by the Fáilte Ireland Just Transition programme should be transformative for the region. Stakeholder organisations have been working closely particularly with Failte Ireland to maximise the opportunities it presents within its terms of reference to ensure the best possible outcomes for the region’s economy. A number of specific areas are being actively examined including sustainability, adherence to climate action targets, transport strategy etc.
