merrion street

The Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, has today (Wednesday) launched a new Code of Practice for Archaeology which aims to optimise the management of archaeological sites discovered during major transport projects. The Code has been drawn up and agreed between the National Monuments Service (NMS) of the Minister’s Department and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

The National Roads Authority and Railway Procurement Agency were merged to become TII in 2015.  The new Code replaces and updates previous separate agreements with these organisations dating back more than a decade.

Speaking today Minister Humphreys said:

“This new Code will provide a single framework for managing archaeology across all TII projects, including the appointment of project archaeologists to design teams. Unexpected archaeological discoveries can present a significant challenge for national road and light rail projects. This Code aims to deal with these discoveries in a balanced and co-ordinated manner that protects our archaeological heritage while at the same time minimising disruption of major infrastructural schemes.

“The previous Codes of Practice have proven their worth by safeguarding our valuable archaeological heritage and highlighting the many exciting sites and artefacts that have been uncovered. By publishing and disseminating the results of the investigations and excavations that have taken place we also have a greatly enhanced understanding and appreciation of our history and sense of place.

“At the same time, of course, TII and its sister organisations have benefitted from being able to manage the archaeological implications of their investment programmes in a more structured and strategic manner, thereby avoiding potential hidden delays and costs.

“Our cultural heritage is ever-changing. This revised and updated Code is a reflection of that dynamic and is a clear indication of the ability of both parties to be adaptable and ready to meet the challenges to our archaeological heritage as Ireland’s transport needs continue to evolve and develop.

The Code is available on the Department’s website:

http://www.ahrrga.gov.ie/app/uploads/2017/06/code-of-practice-agreed-between-tii-ahrrga-eng-1.pdf

http://www.ahrrga.gov.ie/app/uploads/2017/06/code-of-practice-agreed-between-tii-ahrrga-ga.pdf

The new Code of Practice sets out the archaeological standards, obligations and procedures to be adopted by both TII and NMS in all projects where TII is the sanctioning authority and/or the sponsoring agency.