Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2026
41. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his plans to open Rattoo Round Tower, Ballyduff, during National Heritage Week (15-23 August) and improve public access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51035/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for this question in relation to Rattoo Round Tower, an important National Monument in Co. Kerry.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the Office of Public Works intends to facilitate managed public access to Rattoo Round Tower, Ballyduff, during National Heritage Week, which takes place from 15 to 23 August 2026.
Rattoo Round Tower is one of the most significant early medieval monuments in the State. Dating from the 10th or early 11th century, it is the only complete round tower in County Kerry and forms part of an important ecclesiastical site of considerable archaeological, historical and cultural significance.
The Office of Public Works has recently completed an extensive programme of conservation works at the monument, including specialist masonry repairs and internal lime-washing, undertaken by its skilled conservation staff using traditional materials and techniques. These works will help to safeguard the monument for future generations while supporting appropriate public access.
The OPW is delighted to participate in National Heritage Week. Each year, in partnership with the Heritage Council, the OPW delivers an extensive programme of events across its heritage portfolio, providing opportunities for communities and visitors to engage with Ireland's unique built, natural and cultural heritage. Last year alone, the OPW delivered more than 100 Heritage Week events nationwide, together with free admission to over 70 fee-paying heritage sites, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to making our heritage accessible to as many people as possible.
Due to the unique design of Rattoo Round Tower, with its confined internal spaces and vertical access, visitor access must be carefully managed. The OPW has completed a site-specific health and safety assessment and is putting in place the necessary staffing, visitor management and temporary access arrangements to facilitate a safe and enjoyable visitor experience during Heritage Week.
The inclusion of Rattoo Round Tower in this year's Heritage Week programme reflects the OPW's commitment to balancing public access with the conservation of our national monuments. More information on the opening will be available on www.heritageireland.ie I welcome the opportunity for visitors to experience this remarkable monument and to appreciate the significant conservation investment that has been made in preserving it for future generations.
