301. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether consideration would be given to the closure of OPW Heritage site (details supplied). [67677/26]

The Office of Public Works (OPW) will temporarily close Clonmacnoise from mid-October 2026 to facilitate essential improvement works at the site. The decision to close the site has been taken to allow significant enhancement and upgrade works to progress safely and efficiently during the quieter winter period.

Following the temporary winter closure, outdoor-only visitor access will resume while the final elements of the capital project are completed.

The OPW is engaging with key stakeholders, including local tourism providers and tour operators, to ensure they are kept informed of the temporary closure and reopening arrangements.

Clonmacnoise is an important heritage site and visitor attraction, and the OPW recognises its importance to visitors, the local community and the wider regional tourism economy. The OPW is committed to completing the significant capital works project and delivering enhanced visitor facilities and amenities at the site.