Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

291. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform what plans there are for the protection and proper use of the Hill of Tara site. [14233/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Hill of Tara in County Meath is a site of immense cultural, historical, and archaeological significance and the OPW is responsible for its protection, conservation and management.

The Tara Conservation Management Plan (CMP) was published in September 2022 and provides a framework for the ongoing protection, conservation, and management of the National Monument over the next decade. The preparation of this CMP was directed by a Steering Group comprising representatives from the National Monuments Service, National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Office of Public Works, the Discovery Programme, the Heritage Council and Meath County Council. Key strategic objectives of the Plan include protecting the site's cultural significance, promoting awareness, enhancing visitor experiences through sustainable access and improved facilities, and ensuring the site's preservation for future generations.

A key early deliverable of the Action Plan of the Tara Conservation Management Plan is developing a Heritage Landscape Management Strategy. This development of this strategy will include a visitor impact and navigation assessment which will help inform future access proposals for the site. The strategy will address key issues such as biodiversity, landscape vulnerability, and sustainable visitor access, ensuring that the Hill of Tara is managed in a way that balances conservation with public enjoyment. This Heritage Landscape Management Strategy is scheduled for completion in 2025.

Through the implementation of actions in the Tara Conservation Management Plan, including the development of a Heritage Landscape Management Strategy, ongoing conservation works, and sustainable visitor management practices, the OPW aims to balance the site's role as a cultural heritage attraction with its preservation as a vital part of Ireland's heritage. The OPW is implementing measures to promote positive visitor behaviour, such as enhancing signage to encourage care of the monuments and addressing inappropriate uses that may cause damage.

We will continue to work closely with stakeholders, including the National Monuments Service and Meath County Council, to ensure that Tara is conserved and presented to the highest standards.