Historic and archaeological heritage laws to be updated

Malcolm Noonan

The Historic and Archaeological Heritage Bill 2023 provides for a single integrated licencing system and statutory codes of practice as well as conferring legal protections on new finds of archaeological sites.

The current legislative basis for the protection of Ireland’s monument and archaeological objects is the National Monuments Act 1930 and subsequent amending Acts.

Malcolm Noonan, minister of state for heritage and electoral reform, said: “The publication of the Historic and Archaeological Heritage Bill is a major milestone in making Ireland’s historic heritage protections fit for the 21st century.

“The work involved in revising and updating the 1930 Act has been substantial, and I know today’s publication of the bill will be warmly welcomed by everyone who cares about our unique and irreplaceable heritage.

“We are so fortunate to have countless examples of priceless monuments and archaeological objects, both on land and under the seas, that are admired the world over. This new legislation will ensure their protection for generations to come.”

The bill contains a range of proposals intending to help streamline existing systems and processes, and provides for the State to ratify some key international conventions in the area of heritage protection, should the government decide to do so.

There are also proposals for innovative measures, such as legal protection for new finds of archaeological sites, a single integrated licencing system, statutory codes of practice, and a civil enforcement system to be used as an alternative to or to supplement criminal proceedings.

Minister Darragh O’Brien added: “It is vital that our historic heritage continues to be protected and conserved and this Bill will see substantial improvements and innovations to the existing legislative framework. I look forward to its initiation in the Houses of the Oireachtas.”