Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 September 2025
34. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the proposals for further investment in an amenity (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50817/25]
View answerThe Office of Public Works has responsibility for the conservation and presentation of over 780 National Monuments nationwide.
At Drumlane Abbey, Co. Cavan a monastery is thought to have been founded by St. Moedoc in the 7th century. The Round Tower dates from the 12th century. Both Drumlane Abbey and the Round Tower are State-owed National Monuments in the care of the OPW but the adjoining lands are not covered by this designation.
In 2014-2016, OPW craft-workers undertook a significant conservation project to repoint the interior and exterior of the east gable wall of the Church.
Currently, the OPW does not have any immediate plans for further works to Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower, but can confirm that it is regularly inspected and maintained by the OPW District Works Team.
The OPW understands that in 2022 and 2023, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage awarded funding under Stream 1 of the Community Monuments Fund to Cavan County Council for a project which included the rebuilding and stabilisation of the wall surrounding Drumlane Abbey. It is further understood that in 2024, funding was awarded under Stream 2 of the aforementioned scheme for the production of a Conservation Management Plan for this site.
