Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I said, it is intended that a formal engagement with key stakeholders and implementation partners will play a central role in the development of such a policy, given the many strands of our national heritage, both natural and built. We will be working with them very closely and we welcome submissions and ideas from the House, the Oireachtas joint committee and all the different stakeholders.

I agree with the Deputy that heritage is wonderful for local communities. I see great opportunities between the Action Plan for Rural Development and improving the heritage offering in our local communities. Of course, the Deputy is familiar with Bailieborough courthouse. My Department was able to provide €100,000 for the renovation of the courthouse and the old Bridewell jail. There are great opportunities to marry heritage and rural development, and that is the type of innovative project this funding will support. The project is putting Bailieborough courthouse into great use for the future and there are great plans there.

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