Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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716. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the potential of the Grianán of Aileach hill fort in County Donegal; and if he will ensure that facilities at this site are developed and the site is promoted in tandem with the Hill of Tara, with which the site at An Grianán of Aileach is of at least equal national historical importance. [1194/17]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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The Grianán an Aileach site is a National Monument of significant historic importance which is maintained by the Office of Public Works (Office of Public Works) in accordance with the provisions of the National Monuments Acts 1930 – 2004.

The Office of Public Works estimates that the site attracts in excess of 100,000 visitors per annum, notwithstanding that access is difficult and that there is no provision for visitors apart from a County Council owned carpark near the site. The Office of Public Works is therefore very well aware of both the tourism potential and the conservation risks at the site and has been considering how best these issues might be addressed. Office of Public Works has have been in touch with both Donegal Co. Council and Fáilte Ireland to is a solution to the practical issues involved to meet the needs of the site and the many visitors who travel to it each year. These contacts will continue and a meeting is planned soon with County Councillors from the area. The Office of Public Works is hopeful that progress can be made on this issue and regards the local engagement with the Council as essential to move the matter forward positively.