National Monuments Bill 2010

Medievalist

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0510/1224270050275.html

Has anyone been able to get a glance at any detailed info on this? From the Times report, it seems as if there is an emphasis on consistency which will be good. But the idea of having a single licence for related sites screams 'project managers' and money before all else. The excavating archaeologists seem to have less and less control over projects.

If international law, EU and UN conventions are incorporated into the legislation then it could strengthen our ability to preserve sites in the face of development. But if those conventions are left out, the new bill could very easily facilitate legitimising development over heritage. I know there is a fine balance, and development is often essential and should take priority over archaeology at times. But this bill could be really important in establishing the priorities of the State in regards to the heritage vs development debate.

Also, I wonder if the NMI will still retain its control over export licences etc or will there be a centralised department for everything?

robp

According to the department this bill isn't expected to be published before 2011. Amazing how some bills can be fast tracked while others seem drag on and on.