Irish Environment Minister John Gormley has launched his department’s Architectural Heritage Survey of County Longford and the associated book, 'An Introduction to the Architectural Heritage of County Longford'.

The survey informs recommendations from the Minister to Longford County Council for inclusion of structures in its Record of Protected Structures.

NIAH surveys record a sample of built heritage, ranging from structures of grand design to simple construction, spanning the period 1700 to the present day.

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At the event to mark the publication at Longford Library, the Minister said: "The public reaction to the recent catastrophic fire at St. Mel’s Cathedral clearly illustrates our depth and strength of feeling towards historic landmark buildings. Such buildings are significant as symbols of a particular 'place' - contributing substantially to the identity of a town or rural area."

The Minister also said the he understood that "the reinstatement of the cathedral to its former glory represents a considerable challenge".

Minister Gormley said he hoped that Longford County Council would employ a Conservation Officer, as this would greatly enhance the council’s ability to protect the architectural heritage in its care.

(NS/GK)