Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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396. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if his Department assists with, or makes a financial contribution to, the sourcing or provision of childcare or crèche facilities for the children of staff members of any grade or position; if so, the names of the providers; the costs incurred for the period 2020 to date in 2023; the number of staff who have availed of such assistance over this timeframe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25976/23]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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397. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the number of professional archaeologists currently in the employ of the Heritage Council. [26020/23]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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398. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the number of professional archaeologists currently on the board of the Heritage Council. [26021/23]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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399. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the number of professional historians currently in the employ of the Heritage Council. [26026/23]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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400. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the number of professional historians currently on the board of the Heritage Council. [26027/23]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 397 to 400, inclusive, together.

The Board of the Heritage Council comprises members from a wide range of diverse backgrounds and experiences, ensuring leadership and governance oversight for the organisation, and the delivery of its core goals, including the promotion of interest, education, knowledge and pride in Ireland's national heritage.

In relation to the individual disciplines referred to in the Question, at least two members of the Board have prior experience working in the field of archaeology. While no members of the Board are academic staff in a history department at a third-level institution, several have direct experience in the promotion of history or historical places through various means, including in the museum sector. Descriptions of the professional background of each of the members of the Heritage Council board are available at www.heritagecouncil.ie/about/our-board.

The Heritage Council itself is best placed to provide information about the qualifications and experience of its employees, subject to relevant data protection requirements. Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department, which includes the Heritage Council, to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for the Heritage Council is oireachtas@heritagecouncil.ie.