Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:82 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans for the future of the original Asgard vessel. [5471/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 17 February 2005
Ceisteanna (82)
Freagraí scríofa
The Asgard is an archeological object as defined by the National Monuments Act 1930, as amended by the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994, and, as such, my Department takes responsibility for its preservation. The Asgard, by arrangement with the National Museum of Ireland, is in safekeeping at John’s Road, Inchicore, under the care of the Office of Public Works.
The National Museum of Ireland requested the OPW to examine the feasibility of developing a permanent exhibition facility for the Asgard within the NMI Collins Barracks complex. The OPW has identified a number of possible locations within Collins Barracks and has written to the National Museum seeking detailed information regarding such matters as exact dimensions, conservation requirements, display criteria and interpretation. A response to this request is awaited from the National Museum. On receipt of full information, a feasibility report can be finalised by June of this year. Further progress in respect of the conservation of the vessel and putting it on public view will depend on resources available to my Department.