Save Tara campaigners protest as work starts on ruins

Save Tara campaigners will hold a demonstration at the ancient Co Meath site today as excavation works take place at newly discovered 2,000-year old ruins.

The find was made by workers on the controversial M3 motorway project last April and was later selected for National Monument status.

In one of his final acts of office, former Minister for the Environment Dick Roche controversially signed an order of preservation by record for the site, meaning the prehistoric henge would be photographed, sketched and measured before being razed to make way for the motorway.

According to TaraWatch, excavation was due to begin at the end of July, but was postponed due to bad weather.

The demonstration was due to begin at 7am next to the prehistoric henge.

Protester Vincent Salafia said: “Excavation is controlled demolition, and this spectacular new national monument should be preserved.

“Otherwise, what was the point in declaring it a national monument in the first place?"

Fellow campaigner Laura Grealish added: “We have put out an SOS call, and are hoping for large numbers.

“This is the most critical part of the campaign. It is our duty and right as Irish citizens to engage in peaceful, non-violent protest against these illegal works.”