merrion street

Mr Jimmy Deenihan, T.D., Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, today (5/12/2013) launched the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage Surveys of Counties Cavan and Monaghan in Castlesaunderson Church, Co. Cavan and at the Market House, Market Street, Monaghan Town respectively. The surveys are available online on the Department’s website www.buildingsofireland.ie and are accompanied by illustrated books ‘An Introduction to the Architectural Heritage of County Cavan’ and ‘An Introduction to the Architectural Heritage of County Monaghan’. These are the 29th and 30th books to be published in the series, and mark an important milestone in compiling the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage.

Arising from the surveys, the Minister has recommended that 770 structures of architectural heritage value in County Cavan and 1,257 structures in County Monaghan be included in each county’s Record of Protected Structures.

Minister Deenihan remarked:

“The results of the surveys will reinforce pride in our built heritage and ensure that it will be cherished for this and for future generations.”

Each county boasts a wealth of architectural heritage dating from the medieval period up to the present day. The surveys, which cover an array of religious, industrial, residential, civic and commercial buildings, will significantly contribute to our understanding of the history and development of counties Cavan and Monaghan. Their rich architectural legacies include impressive public buildings, fine railway stations, imposing country houses, and simple cast-iron post boxes and water pumps.

The Minister added:

“If historic buildings are to survive as our legacy to future generations, they will have to be adapted to cater for the changing circumstances and needs of their present owners and users. The challenge is to manage change without sacrificing the intrinsic character of the building.”

Minister Deenihan emphasised the important role of the surveys in assisting Cavan and Monaghan County Councils in the future protection of the built heritage of their counties.