Environment Minister John Gormley has outlined progress on the Review of Archaeological Policy and Practice and the proposed National Monuments Bill 2009.

Mr Gormley said, since assuming office in 2007, he has attempted to deal with the legacy of previous decisions relating to the M3, and the possible impacts on the Hill of Tara and the surrounding landscapes.

"I was of the opinion then and I am still of the same opinion that legislation needed to be bolstered to offer further protection to our national monuments and associated landscapes nationwide," said Minister Gormley.

In September 2007 the Minister initiated a major review of archaeological policy and practice in Ireland.

"The aim of the review was to make policy and practice in protecting Ireland's archaeological heritage the best there could be and to draw from the experience and advice of experts both at home and abroad to achieve this," he said.

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An Expert Advisory Committee was established to advise on how to respond to the issues that had emerged.

At the Minister's request the Expert Advisory Committee concentrated, initially, on legislative provisions to up-date and replace the National Monuments Acts 1930, 1954, 1987, 1994 & 2004.

In February this year the Minister approved the preparation of drafts heads of a bill to replace the National Monuments Acts, 1930 to 2004, and related enactments, based on the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Committee on the Review of Archaeological Policy & Practice.

The main theme of the proposals is to form a single consistent system for regulating archaeological works in relation to all types of development both in the public and private sector; at present differing regimes apply to approved road schemes and other public infrastructure provision and private sector development.

A more efficient licensing system for archaeological excavations has also been suggested, which effectively provides a single licence for all archaeological works relating to a particular scheme or project, rather than a multiplicity of licences which can be required at present.

An appeals system where an application for a licence is refused could also be established.

(PR/JM)