Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 October 2019
84. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the restoration plans for properties under his ownership in Kells, County Meath; his further plans to carry out enhancement or conservation works at the monastic site; and if there are plans to enhance the tourism signage in Kells. [39620/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are two National Monuments in OPW care in Kells, Co Meath. These are:
- St. Colmcille's House
- Kells Round Tower
Both these sites undergo regular light maintenance and inspections. Currently, works are planned for the Round Tower with a view to addressing certain fabric issues and creating safe public access. Preliminary work has been undertaken at the site and plans for the next phases are being developed. It is not possible at this stage to say when the work will be undertaken.
St. Colmcille's House is currently in a good state of conservation repair and no work at this location is contemplated currently apart from ongoing maintenance.
The provision of tourist signage in Kells is not the responsibility of the OPW and there are therefore no plans currently to implement tourism signage in the town. However, should Meath County Council have any plans in this regard, OPW will be happy to cooperate with any urban realm initiative.
