Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2024
133. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the progress made to date by the OPW in arranging to obtain the ancient document, known as the Pangur Bán, for the purpose of putting it on display in Kilkenny Castle. [37548/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Pangur Bán, an early 9th-century poem of national historic significance, was previously offered by its guardians in St. Paul’s Abbey library in Lavanttal, Austria for exhibition in Kilkenny Castle. While initial discussions about the possibility of hosting the Pangur Bánon display at the Castle took place, the housing of a 9th century manuscript of this importance and delicacy would require specialist conservation handling.While Kilkenny Castle has achieved Museum Standards Programme status, the level of expert handling and housing the need to provide and maintain the requisite light and humidity levels would be significant. The OPW remains open to pursuing the temporary loan of this manuscript when the necessary curatorial conditions to ensure its proper care are in place.
