Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Apr 1995

Vol. 451 No. 6

Written Answers. - Dungarvan Castle Archaeological Excavations.

Austin Deasy

Question:

28 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Finance when the architectural dig planned for Dungarvan Castle, Dungarvan, County Waterford, will commence; the expected duration of this dig; when the castle will be open for public viewing; and the further digs, if any, proposed for the town of Dungarvan. [6874/95]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. J. Higgins)

It is intended to commence the archaeological excavation at Dungarvan Castle in May 1995. The first phase will involve an exploratory excavation in the "Well Keep" and will take approximately eight weeks to complete. The nature and extent of any further archaeological excavations will depend on the results of this exploratory excavation.

A major scheme of conservation and partial restoration works is required before Dungarvan Castle can be fully opened to the public. It will not be possible to commence this scheme until all necessary archaeological excavations and other prerequisites have been completed.

The Commissioners of Public Works have no plans to carry out other excavations in Dungarvan.