asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her Department will provide grant assistance towards the provision of proper facilities for tourists visiting Moone High Cross, Moone, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2829/00]
Written Answers. - Natural Heritage Areas.
199
Since the transfer of this site to the State, the heritage service of my Department has undertaken a programme of works there. These works include conservation of the High Cross, its removal to within the church, and structural works to the church which are now in progress to support a roof which will protect the cross from adverse weather conditions. In addition the church walls have been repaired, an archaeological excavation has been completed and an interpretative display of all-weather panels is in place.
Discussions have taken place with Kildare County Council and a local landowner regarding the provision of a car park. I understand that the county council is pursuing this matter. I am satisfied that these measures will be adequate to ensure public access and enjoyment of the site and consequently I have no plans to provide any further facilities there.
Jack Wall
Ceist:200 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will provide funding to assist voluntary groups which are attempting to preserve old and ancient graveyards many of which have great items of architectural listing and many famous names of historical interest; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2830/00]
Responsibility for the care and conservation of graveyards lies normally with local authorities or the relevant Church body. However, my Department does assist voluntary groups which are engaged on such projects by offering advice on how such schemes should proceed.
Given the large number of such graveyards throughout the country the resources are not available to my Department to allow for funding of such projects. All resources at my disposal are fully committed to the conservation and maintenance of national monuments which are in State care. The Heritage Council, an independent statutory body, may provide assistance in this regard and applications should be made direct to that body.
Further details regarding policy and procedures are contained in the publication The Care and Conservation of Graveyards, a copy of which I will make available to the Deputy.