Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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409. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the funding options available to a village (details supplied) in County Kerry that wishes to mark a major anniversary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19112/13]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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The archaeological record of North Kerry and the Dingle peninsula shows evidence of settlement of profound antiquity, dating back to the Mesolithic period 8,000 – 4,000 BC. Located at the last crossing point on the river Maine and taking its name from a castle demolished in the Cromwellian wars, Castlemaine has a very rich heritage. There is no scheme that would provide funding on the basis of the 800th anniversary. Official support is channelled towards specific activities, events or developments that might be proposed by the community and it can be sought from several agencies under various schemes each with specific eligibility requirements. The exploration and celebration of local history contributes to education and community life. I send my best wishes for the success of this project and the assurance of my continuing interest.