Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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341. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government when a decision will be made on an application (details supplied) in relation to a preservation order on lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25100/20]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The Preservation Order was originally placed on the lands in question to secure the protection of late prehistoric to early medieval archaeological features, in particular burials, which were in danger from quarrying. With the co-operation and funding of the landowner, those archaeological features have been archaeologically excavated and recorded. The landowner has requested that the Preservation Order be revoked on the basis that, as a result of the archaeological excavations that have taken place, the lands may no longer be of archaeological significance. Prior to determining this request my Department considered it appropriate for an independent archaeological report to be commissioned to help to inform the decision making process. I understand that the report has unfortunately been subject to some delays occasioned by Covid restrictions but is now expected to be submitted shortly.

On receipt of the report, my Department will, as required under the provisions of the National Monuments Acts, consult with the Heritage Council before deciding on whether or not to revoke the Preservation Order, following which the outcome will be notified to the landowner without delay.