Vol. 528 No. 3
37 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands when the promised national heritage plan will be finalised; when she will bring proposals to Government in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29998/00]
The national heritage plan will be the first comprehensive strategy encompassing all aspects of our national heritage to be prepared in the history of the State.
I initiated a broad public consultation process in relation to the development of the national heritage plan and some 350 submissions were received. Parallel preparatory work was undertaken within my Department, involving an assessment of the current management of our heritage.
Overall the process represents the most fundamental and critical examination undertaken of the current state of Irish heritage and the needs for the future.
The draft plan was circulated to Departments on a consultative basis during the summer and their reactions to the proposals have been considered. I hope to be in a position to bring the national heritage plan to Government for approval in January 2001, with publication following as soon as possible thereafter.
Questions Nos. 38 and 39 taken with Question No. 9.
