Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I reject the Deputy's connotation that essentially there is Cabinet interference. There is absolutely no interference. This is a robust, independent process. I made clear in my speech that individuals and organisations are encouraged to make applications in collaboration with the local authority. The local authority places structure on any process. Local authorities are a key focal point throughout the 31 regions in our State. They are needed to give direction. I make no apologies in that regard.

To summarise, my Department is currently engaged in a review of a Tentative List. It is necessary for a property to be on the Tentative List before it can proceed to nomination for world heritage status. My Department has been liaising closely with interested parties and has been providing advice and support on preparation of their applications. An expert advisory group has been formed to assess the potential of each property to demonstrate outstanding universal value and to determine if there is robust stakeholder support for the project. The expert advisory group will formalise its recommendations to me on the composition of Ireland's Tentative List. My Department will make final decisions in regard to inclusion on the Tentative List and the suitability of a property to proceed to world heritage property nomination. The World Heritage Convention, on the advice of the advisory body, makes the decision to inscribe the world heritage property on the list. The Deputy will note the process outlined is independent and robust. Currently, no final applications have been received. However, as alluded to earlier, five applications are anticipated. The viability for future inclusion of the seven properties on the 2010 Tentative List, including the early monastic sites, will be reviewed by the expert advisory group.

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