Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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279. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has engaged with the Office of Public Works regarding the opening of Rattoo Round Tower, Ballyduff, County Kerry for National Heritage Week 2026; whether it is intended that the site will be open to the public during Heritage Week from 15 to 23 August 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50427/26]

Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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280. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the Office of Public Works intends to open Rattoo Round Tower, Ballyduff, County Kerry to the public during National Heritage Week, from 15 to 23 August 2026; if staffing and operational arrangements are in place to facilitate same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50428/26]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 279 and 280 together.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has recently completed a programme of conservation works at Rattoo Round Tower, Ballyduff, Co. Kerry, including the completion of internal lime-washing works.

The OPW is a longstanding participant in National Heritage Week and each year delivers an extensive programme of events and activities at heritage sites throughout the country. Heritage Week provides an important opportunity for the public to engage with Ireland's built, natural and cultural heritage through guided visits, exhibitions, family events and educational programmes. In 2025, the OPW facilitated over 100 Heritage Week events nationwide and preparations are well advanced for a similarly comprehensive programme in 2026.

As part of this year's programme, and subject to normal operational requirements, the OPW intends to facilitate managed public access to Rattoo Round Tower during National Heritage Week, which takes place from 15 to 23 August 2026.

Due to the unique nature of the monument, including its narrow internal configuration and the need to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, access will be carefully managed. The OPW is putting in place the necessary staffing, temporary access infrastructure and operational arrangements to facilitate the safe opening of the monument.