Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 303: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to fully utilise Slí na gCaillí, Loughcrew, County Meath. [16556/12]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Three main clusters of megalithic cairns are spread along the Slieve na Caillaigh Hills at Loughcrew. These are on (1) Patrickstown, (2) Carnbane East, where Cairn T is the centrepiece and (3) Carnbane West, where Cairn L is located.

The Office of Public Works manages the State owned lands at Carnbane East, which are accessible all year round, with the exception of access to the interior of Cairn T. A guide service is present from mid-June to late August during which time the cairn is accessible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For the rest of the year, a key to Cairn T is available from the keyholders at Loughcrew Historic Gardens, which is approximately five kilometres from the site. Carnbane East is accessed by way of a steep grass path up the hill.

Cairn L and surrounding monuments on the western hill are under State Guardianship. These are located on privately owned land with no public right of way. The Office of Public Works is committed to engaging with local communities to enhance the visitor experience and accessibility to heritage attractions such as the Lough Crew Passage Tombs. The Commissioners have no other specific plans to further utilise these monuments.