Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 75: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if media reports that the decision to roll over the Woodstown Viking site in Waterford for the city's N25 bypass on the basis that it would be the most cost effective option is accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22295/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Subsequent to the approval of the Waterford bypass road scheme by An Bord Pleanála, test archaeological investigations were carried out which revealed the existence of the Viking site at Woodstown. A proposal to preserve the site underneath the road was made to my Department. An internal working document, evaluating various options including full excavation and preservation under the road, suggested inter alia that preservation under the road could be the most cost effective option. At the same time, as the nature of the site became clearer, there were ongoing consultations with the road authority and the National Museum of Ireland on the optimum solution for this site.

In August 2004 the Minister directed that further investigations be carried out to assist assessment of the archaeological nature and potential of the site. Subsequent to the carrying out of these studies, the NRA indicated that it favoured an alternative route.

On 11 May 2005 I issued directions requiring the protection of the Viking site. I am currently setting up a working group to advise on the long-term strategy to deal with the site. The working group will include representatives of my Department, the National Museum of Ireland, Waterford City Council and the NRA.