merrion street

Earlier this month the Office of Public Works (OPW) launched a nationwide advertising campaign seeking expressions of interest from local heritage/community groups who may be interested in becoming a partner with the OPW. The closing date for receipt of proposals is Wednesday 28th March 2012.

Minister Brian Hayes TD, with responsibility for the OPW, said when announcing the initiative that: “ For whatever reason Ireland has never involved voluntary effort in the presentation of our heritage. This will change under my time as Minister and to this end, I have put in place a process to formalise the involvement of community groups in our national heritage. As the lead agency with the responsibility in preserving and presenting our heritage, OPW needs the help of local community and heritage groups.”

The Minister also said: “I am constantly met by groups who want greater opening times, more local involvement or who have plans to develop tourism locally by using our national monuments and national properties. We need to work with these groups. A new partnership needs to be formed between the OPW and local community effort. There are of course challenges for the OPW in this but I’m convinced that this organisation has the expertise and know how required.”

The Minister said today: “ While I am heartened by the level of interest already shown, I wish to encourage further groups to participate by e mailing us at communities@opw.ie or contacting us directly at 046 9426106 or 046 9426061. A national conference will take place in April and the OPW will provide training and support for the groups selected to be part of the pilot in 2012.”