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

I thank the Senator for the kinds words in his opening remarks. It is a privilege for me to be here as Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW. The Senator is right that it is my first such engagement and I am delighted to be here for it.

Immediately on taking up the post of Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, I asked my officials to introduce a scheme of free entry for children under 12 to paid heritage sites managed by the OPW's heritage service. Such a scheme would be a very progressive development and foster a greater awareness of the value of our national culture among our young. A scheme would encourage greater participation among families and a desire to visit these sites. The Office of Public Works already operates a free scheme for school visits which has been in place for many years and this will remain unchanged. The proposal I am considering would, however, extend the scheme to all children who visit the sites. Following a full assessment of the operational needs surrounding this proposal, which will involve changes to the admission protocols at sites and a consideration of the financial costs, I hope to be in a position to make a formal announcement in the coming weeks.