Large scale archaeological excavations have been taking place in the medieval core of Dublin City since the early 1960s. Various recommendations have been made on foot of these excavations, some having specific and some having general relevance. Based on their extensive experience of these excavations, the National Monuments and Historic Properties Service of my Department in conjunction with the National Museum of Ireland, has over the years evolved a policy in relation to the impact of building development on medieval remains.
The general nature of this approach relates to the positioning of piling layouts, types of piling and nature of impact depending on the form of building foundations. Other considerations include lifting building and service trenches above archaeological levels, to minimise impact.
Last March, I also made an announcement in relation to basement development within the urban zones of archaeological potential. In this, I reaffirmed that it would be the clear and unambiguous policy of the National Monuments Service in the future to oppose planning applications for basements within these zones unless it could be demonstrated that the construction of such basements could be achieved without unacceptable archaeological implications. I added that where it was considered unsuitable planning permissions had been granted, powers under the National Monuments Acts would be invoked.
The need for archaeological excavations in the inner city has largely emanated from proposed redevelopment projects. These excavations have greatly enhanced the archaeological knowledge of specific sites and have contributed significantly in developing the perception of a wider view of medieval Dublin. Further excavations in the future will assist in the continuing development of appropriate strategies to conserve and record the vital archaeological heritage of all our medieval towns and cities.