A five-year plan by the Heritage Council to consolidate its work in local communities needed increased funding on an annual basis, its chief executive said yesterday.
Michael Starrett said the council had sought during the preparation of its 2007 to 2011 strategic plan to build on the very positive shift in public awareness of national heritage.
He was making a presentation to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Environment. He said the plan was subject to public consultation until September 29th.
Mr Starrett said public interest in our heritage had grown substantially since 1995. The plan wanted to build on the council's clear policy statements, its successful grant programmes and its partnership with local authorities.
However, local authorities and local communities needed to be effectively resourced if the partnership was to flourish. The council's expenditure this year would be some €14 million. "To effectively implement its proposals during the first year of its plan in 2007 the council requires approximately €20 million."
He added: "The Heritage Council will be seeking to secure increases in allocation on an annual basis over the plan period."