Written answers

Tuesday, 18 October 2011

Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs

National Monuments

9:00 pm

Photo of Sandra McLellanSandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 58: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for the continued protection of post-1700 monuments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29860/11]

Photo of Sandra McLellanSandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 301: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for the continued protection of post-1700 monuments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29905/11]

Photo of Jimmy DeenihanJimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 301 together.

I can assure the Deputy that there are no proposals to remove the protection of the National Monuments Acts from any category of monument. My Department's National Monuments Service is reviewing the policy for including monuments in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) because the current RMP, drawn up more than 10 years ago, is not consistent across all counties, where post-1700 AD monuments are concerned.

The objective of this current review is to bring about greater consistency across the board. This is only one element of a wider strategy to improve the management, protection, presentation and appreciation of Ireland's unique archaeological heritage. My Department is working to provide high quality, accurate and accessible information through its dedicated website www.archaeology.ie. A comprehensive new Monuments Bill is also being drafted to consolidate, modernise and improve the legislative code for the protection and regulation of our archaeological heritage. In addition, detailed guidance is being developed on archaeological best practice and procedure, based on comprehensive recommendations from an expert review group that has been engaged in an intensive examination of practice over a number of years.

There are obviously issues that will arise as to how, and under which legislation, certain structures should be best protected. There is no question, however, of the current Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) being revised until the review has been completed. When draft policy and criteria for updating the RMP have been developed, my Department will consult with interested parties before any decisions are made.

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