Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware of the reported archaeological find at Drumholm graveyard on foot of recent excavations carried out under licences issued by my Department under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2004. The licenses relate to investigations associated with an application to Donegal County Council under the planning Acts for an extension to the graveyard and the provision of a new vehicular entrance and additional car park spaces. The graveyard is the location of a number of monuments already listed in the record of monuments and places under the National Monuments Acts.

Holders of excavation licences under the National Monuments Acts are required to submit a preliminary report on the excavation to my Department and the National Museum of Ireland within four weeks of completion. A detailed report must follow within 12 months of completion of excavation. As assessment of the significance of the reported find in this case, taking account of its context within the ecclesiastical complex of which it forms part, will be commenced by my Department once the preliminary report is received. An inspection of the site will also be carried out as part of that assessment.

If it transpires that the find is as significant as has been suggested, it will indeed be a valuable addition to our archaeological heritage that will further highlight and demonstrate the continuity of worship that has taken place at the site for many generations. The Church of Ireland authorities and the local community are meanwhile to be commended for their stewardship, care and management of the monument site, which has facilitated and made possible the recent reported discovery.

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