Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2024
129. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if a start date has been agreed for the commencement of remedial works on Cairn T at the Loughcrew heritage site near Oldcastle, County Meath; if he can confirm the plan and schedule for the re-opening of Cairn T to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19626/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe megalithic passage tombs of Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery are an extraordinary part of our national heritage that are particularly vulnerable and require careful conservation and management. In recent years structural concerns have emerged at Cairn T. Visitors are not permitted on top of the cairns, due to concerns for the structure).
OPW held constructive meetings on site and conducted subsequent discussions with the National Monuments Service of the Department for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to agree details of the actions that needed to safeguard Cairn T.
Detailed design proposals regarding safe access for OPW, consultants and contractors has recently been finalised by our conservation specialist Structural Engineer. Ministerial Consent for this proposal has been granted by DHLGH.
The temporary additional support for the interior of the Cairn will allow safe access for our architects, engineer and District Works in-house stone masons. This will then allow a review of structural concerns and definition of the agreed approach and scope required to progress remedial works, and safeguard the Cairn into the future. The issue of future public access will be reviewed once the Cairns structural stabilisation project is complete.
