Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 183: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total number of heritage sites or buildings identified and accessible from a tourism or scientific point of view; the extent of interest generated through the marketing of such locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30137/11]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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The Heritage Services of the OPW are responsible for the conservation, maintenance and management of approximately 780 sites that are in State ownership or guardianship. Of these some 69 sites throughout the country are presented to the public by way of a dedicated guide Service. Some of which are fee paying. In 2010 a total of 3.33 million people visited these sites.

Many of the other sites within our care such as, the Phoenix Park, St. Stephen's Green, etc, are not presented by such a guide service but have many thousands of visitors each year.

All of our sites could be considered tourist related and many offer a valuable scientific and educational role and remit. Requests for access to all sites are facilitated where possible for educational, scientific or media purposes.

The marketing of sites is carried by the OPW Visitor Services section who also maintain the "Heritage Ireland" website and together with local Site Managers market these sites and the many events that take place each year.