Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 8 and 33 together.

I was delighted to visit the Hill of Tara recently at the request of public representatives in the area to inspect at first hand the various issues which affect the site and to listen to the various comments on the need for improved facilities there. The Office of Public Works, OPW, has responsibility for the management and maintenance of the site and operates a seasonal guide service based at the former Church of Ireland building. It also provides maintenance services and manages both the national monument structures and the extensive acreage of the Tara site. This is clearly a most important historical centre which is popular with many visitors both domestic and foreign. Safeguarding it is, and will continue to be, a high priority for the OPW.

The various agencies involved are engaged in the preparation of a new management plan for the site and its future will be set out clearly within that. The OPW is participating in that work and is clearly focused to ensure that its responsibilities are addressed. An extensive process of consultation is under way which will, I have no doubt, inform the best future plan for perhaps the most important archaeological site on this island.

See this speech in context