Gormley to seek views on protecting historic sites

Minister for the Environment John Gormley is seeking the views of experts and the public on how Ireland should go about protecting its historic monuments.

Mr Gormley is launching a public consultation process today that will see a series of seminars held to discuss the best ways to preserve such monuments.

The move follows the controversy surrounding the Lismullen monument found in the path of the planned M3 motorway in Co Meath.

Mr Gormley's predecessor, Dick Roche, approved the destruction of the monument to make way for the road.

The minister says he cannot overturn the decision, but has promised to review the Government's archaeological policy and practices.