Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 117 together.

The matter concerning the proposed installation of CCTV at Clare Abbey has been previously raised in discussions with the local authority and local stakeholders and in my presence as well during a visit to the abbey. The deployment of security measures across the national heritage estate is kept under constant review by OPW. Security measures, where deemed necessary, must be proportionate to address a real, pressing and substantial problem. The installation of security measures in rural settings can pose a challenge in terms of available infrastructure and the visual and physical impact on the site. As such, physical security measures are not always a feasible option. There are also a number of other considerations prior to any interventions at the site.  

The OPW has taken local concerns on board and engaged a caretaker for the site. I understand that the incidence of vandalism and littering has decreased since the engagement of the caretaker.  The OPW works closely with An Garda Síochána and the local authority in addition to relying on the local community to alert us to issues as they arise and we are grateful to them for doing so.

The OPW will also continue to maintain Clare Abbey as mandated under national monuments legislation and will respond to any alerts regarding anti-social behaviour as soon as information is brought to its attention.

I have an open mind in respect of what both of them have asked for, notwithstanding the limitations on putting in infrastructure. I am certainly open to any suggestions, as is the OPW, that either or both Deputies may make on this question.

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