99. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the adopt a monument scheme will open to new applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74925/26]

The Adopt a Monument Scheme is operated by the Heritage Council and aims to help communities become actively involved in the conservation and interpretation of their local archaeological and cultural heritage sites.

The Heritage Council is a statutory body established by the Heritage Act 1995. The Council is a body under the aegis of this Department but is independent in the performance of its functions. As such, details of its schemes should be sought, in the first instance, from the Council directly.

Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for the Heritage Council is oireachtas@heritagecouncil.ie.