299. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of visitors to an OPW Heritage site (details supplied) for each of the years 2021-2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form. [67675/26]

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for conserving, maintaining and operating Ireland's most important heritage sites.  The mission of the OPW Heritage Services is to conserve and protect the built and natural heritage in our care whilst providing public access, interpretation and encouraging the public to visit and engage with our national heritage.

Clonmacnoise Monastic Site is a national monument in State ownership. The site is open year-round to visitors. The conservation of the site is overseen by conservation specialists and OPW craftsmen.  The OPW employs a Visitor Experience team of expert guides who deliver public tours and manage the visitor operations at the site.

The number of visitors to Clonmacnoise for each of the years 2021-2025 and to date in 2026, is set out in tabular form below.

It should also be noted that the OPW audits all visitor data annually, in arrears. This audit to verify visitor numbers takes place in quarter one each year. In that context, the 2026 visitor data presented here is strictly provisional.

*It is noted that a reduced admissions model was in place in 2021 due to the impact of Covid 19 restrictions.

** 2026 figures are impacted by the construction project currently on site which is funded through the EU Just Transition Fund. This significant capital investment will enhance conservation, interpretation, accessibility and visitor facilities at the site.