Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2023
256. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the recent vandalism of the Lia Fáil at Tara; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8410/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn the 7th of February, my office was notified of a graffiti incident to the Lia Fáil at Tara. The same day, an inspection involving representatives from the Office of Public Works - National Monuments Conservation Unit and the National Monuments Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage took place with An Garda Síochána in attendance.
Conservation specialists from the Office of Public Works undertook conservation and cleaning of the monument on the 8th of February.
Vandalism of this nature to our national heritage is entirely unacceptable. It should be noted that a campaign, launched in July 2021 by the OPW and the National Monuments Service, aimed to highlight the vulnerability of Ireland’s archaeological heritage and how the public may assist in its protection. This 'Protect our Past' social media campaign has run regularly since on OPW social media channels and is currently being promoted again in light of the vandalism to the Lia Fáil.
