Joanna Byrne (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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803. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform for an update on any works or proposals to open Saint Laurence's Gate, Drogheda to the public, and on improving the surrounding public realm and creating a civic space; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41788/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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St. Laurence’s Gate, National Monument number 511, is a National Monument in State guardianship, under the care of the Office of Public Works (OPW). Legal ownership remains with Louth County Council.

As with all National Monuments in our care, access decisions are made with reference to site-specific risk assessments and conservation considerations. The OPW has supported limited, managed access to St. Laurence’s Gate in recent years, including during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and Irish Walled Towns initiatives. These events were facilitated through a ticketed system to ensure public safety. The OPW continues to facilitate similar requests for access during heritage-related events where health and safety and conservation considerations can be appropriately managed.

A recent structural report commissioned by the OPW, and shared with local representatives, identified certain conservation concerns. Addressing these issues would require substantial specialist works. The confined internal layout of the National Monument makes it unsuitable for general public access and this would not change even if further works were undertaken.

Public realm enhancements fall primarily within the remit of the local authority. The OPW recognises the importance of the Gate within the broader urban fabric of Drogheda and is committed to working collaboratively to ensure that the monument remains an integral and visible part of any future civic or streetscape developments in the area.

The OPW will continue to monitor and maintain St. Laurence’s Gate in line with its legislative responsibilities, and remains committed to preserving and promoting this iconic medieval landmark in collaboration with local stakeholders.