10 Archaeological and Cultural Heritage

10.7 Preservation Orders, Registered Sites and Sites listed in County Development Plans

Seven of the sites within the study area are protected by Preservation Orders. In certain circumstances that threaten an existing monument, Dúchas The Heritage Service has by order undertaken the preservation of the monument. The effect of these Preservation Orders makes it unlawful to interfere with the monument in any way without the written consent of Dúchas. 21 of the sites within the study area are listed as Registered Sites. The 'Register of Historic Monuments' was established by Dúchas (formerly under the auspices of the Office of Public Works), following the introduction of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act of 1987. As a result of this Act it is unlawful to carry out work to a Registered Monument, except in a case of urgent necessity and with the consent of Dúchas. The number of inclusions in the Register is growing steadily as it is to include all recorded sites (RMPs), which are known to Dúchas. The majority of these sites are also listed in the county development plan as being protected. In certain circumstances County Councils list and highlight certain archaeological sites in their respective areas for protection from development under the provisions of the National Monuments (Amended) Acts.

It should be noted that although KD028-038 Dun Aillinne Hillfort, which is protected by a preservation order, is not a National Monument, it should be considered to be of extremely high archaeological significance.