As indicated in a reply to a similar question from the Deputy on 2 March 1999, while the funding of the many activities addressed under the Boyne Valley integrated development plan is a matter for the individual executive agencies concerned as part of their ongoing responsibilities, a sub-programme specifically associated with the plan is also being pursued by my Department. Work being undertaken as part of this sub-programme includes the development of a long-distance walk between Slane and Oldbridge and improved access and information at Bective Abbey, Slane and Loughcrew.
From 1997 to date, payments totalling £560,000 have been made to Meath County Council to enable work on these projects to get under way. Further allocations will be made as work progresses.
Overall, I believe that progress has been made in the implementation of the elements of the BVIDP being administered by my Department. In addition to the projects I detailed, work on Trim Castle will be complete in the very near future, as will work on the restoration of Grange Castle, a project which allows for the creation of a western gateway attraction to the Boyne Valley near Clonard.
I am also delighted to report that work is proceeding apace on the development of the Battle of the Boyne site. The Battle of the Boyne project is one that accords fully with the objectives of the BVIDP and when complete will add a new, exciting dimension to the attractiveness of the area of the Boyne Valley.