The Bord Gáis sponsored archaeological publication entitled 'The Bronze Age Landscape of the Pipeline to the West' has been launched by John Gormley, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government at the Royal Irish Academy, Dawson Street, Dublin.

The publication recounts the story of the archaeological and environmental project during construction of the gas pipeline and describes the fruits of that cooperative effort.

Over 100 archaeologists were employed during the course of the excavation process on the 318km pipeline, which stretches from Dublin across to Galway and down to Limerick. Even with the considerable research and 'walk-over' surveys, all of which were geared to avoid archaeology, over 400 archaeological sites, ranging from Late Neolithic (4,000 – 2,400 B.C) to 19th Century were discovered.

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Speaking at the launch, John Barry, Acting Chief Executive, Bord Gáis said: "I believe this publication is an important marker that highlights Bord Gáis' commitment to the preservation of our living past.

"Indeed, Bord Gáis has spear-headed the concept of archaeological awareness in all construction projects since the late 1970s. Ever since gas first came ashore from the Kinsale Field, we have had a special relationship with archaeology and have dedicated significant time and funding to ensuring the conservation of archaeological sites."

Mr. Barry also paid tribute to the team of archaeologists and environmentalists who were commissioned by Bord Gáis to oversee all aspects of pipeline operations.

He said: "Environmental conservation and the protection of our natural heritage remains a priority throughout the pre-planning and execution phases of all of our projects. The pipeline projects undertaken by Bord Gáis in recent years represent landmark achievements for the energy sector in Ireland. Importantly it shows how progress can take place in tandem with environmental responsibility."

Of all the infrastructural projects in the country, the gas pipelines results are the only projects that have been completed to publication and this has provided a huge resource for further research in Irish archaeological Publication.

(GK/JM)