Vol. 543 No. 4
17 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the number of ring forts which have been excavated for archaeological reasons in the past four years; the number which have been opened to the public for educational and tourism purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27166/01]
There are estimated to be as many as 30,000 ring forts or enclosures in the country. My Department's records show that since 1998, 127 excavations have taken place on or close to ring forts. These excavations would predominately relate to planning and development on land which would not be in the care of the State and therefore public access to view these sites would not be feasible. I remind the Deputy that Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department provides visitors' services at more than 70 sites many of which deal with archaeological and historical themes.
I thank the Minister for her reply. I am sure she would agree that these ring fort sites are of great archaeological interest and value. We must be careful and watchful because some of these sites could be obliterated as a result of development works. Can the Minister ensure that the programme of excavation is expedited and that none of these forts are obliterated? They may contain valuable information about our heritage.
Will the Minister say if any of these sites are still under restriction because of the foot and mouth disease precautions which were imposed earlier in the year?
There is much development taking place throughout the country and we must ensure that there is proper conservation and protection of our heritage. We have often spoken in this House about the need for balance between the two. It is to ensure that balance that I have agreed a code of practice with the NRA. That code of practice has been very successful and very practical. I congratulate the NRA for its work. A number of archaeologists have been employed by the NRA to do the kind of work the Deputy agrees should be undertaken. I will investigate whether restrictions due to foot and mouth disease are still in place. This question deals with the excavations taking place on privately owned land and obviously in that case such access would not be feasible.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
