John V. Farrelly
Ceist:42 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will outline the conservation works being undertaken by her Department in 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6526/98]
Written Answers - Architectural Heritage.
The Heritage Service of my Department is responsible for the management of almost 800 national monument and historic property sites throughout the country which are in State care. These sites encompass all aspects of our nation's built heritage, from simple standing stones to elaborate castles. The portfolio of sites and properties in State care covers some of the finest examples of human activity on this island, from pre-historic times, through to the early Christian, medieval and post-medieval periods.
In addition to routine maintenance programmes, significant conservation works are scheduled to take place this year at over 70 locations. If there are any specific sites or properties which are of particular interest to the Deputy, I should be pleased to communicate more detailed information to him.