asked the Minister for Education whether he is in a position to make a statement to the House concerning the archæological finds made at Lough Gara and whether he has satisfied himself that every possible step necessary is being taken to ensure the proper safeguarding of the finds made and the further archæological investigation of the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Archæological Finds.
The recent discovery of an extensive concentration of crannóg settlements of the New Stone Age, the Late Bronze Age and the Early Christian Period in the Lough Gara area is regarded by the National Museum as of outstanding importance, and the site is at present being actively investigated by the staff of the Irish Antiquities Division of the Museum.
In addition to the usual precautions, special measure have been and are being taken towards preserving the remains of the many shore and lake habitations that have so far come to light and towards safeguarding the local archæological material.
The objects on the site are protected by the provisions of the National Monuments Act, 1930.
Is it proposed to pass a vote of thanks to the Department of Agriculture for draining the Lough and revealing this archæological material?
Are you responsible?
Yes.
We also have a lot of archæological remains in this House.
You would hardly be a prize exhibit.
The Minister refers to my exposures of himself. What a queer old crannóg he looks.