Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein)
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590. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if his Department has considered making the entirety of Vinegar Hill, County Wexford a protected national heritage site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40628/21]

Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)
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The ruined windmill at Vinegar Hill is in my guardianship as a national monument under the National Monuments Act 1930 and is managed by the Office of Public Works. The lands immediately surrounding the structure are in the ownership of Wexford County Council. The County Development Plan contains objectives specifically aimed at the protection of battlefield landscapes and their settings.

The Battle of Vinegar Hill itself was a very important event in Irish history. My Department, a few years ago, authorised extensive archaeological investigations on the site to provide a better understanding of how the battle was conducted. The information gleaned from this research will add to and enhance the visitor understanding of the site and their experience. I appreciate the ongoing investment by Wexford County Council in promoting the site and the facilities that have been put in place for visitors. My Department will continue to work with the Council and other stakeholders, including the tourism agencies, to increase public awareness and interest in the site.

My Department’s National Monuments Service is currently engaged on finalising publication of the Irish Historic Battlefield Project, with Volume 1 of the series covering 1798. This work when published will lead to greater awareness of Irish battlefields and their historical significance, including that of Vinegar Hill.