Archaeology of Tara and the
M3
Madam - I have never known the archaeological profession
to be as united as it is at present over the desecration
at Tara. The only archaeologists I have heard speaking in
favour of the road are the NRA's own in-house ones and I
suspect that even they may hold different opinions in
private. All archaeologists are aware that rescue
archaeology in advance of development is not best
practice.
Conor Newman (October 9th.) is correct to call the
current mess wilful bad planning, but I would suggest
that it is not entirely the fault of the NRA. Surely An
Bord Pleanála bears some responsibility for this
fiasco? Its weak-kneed, unquestioning acceptance of
whatever road plans are put before it shows that it is
simply the Government's rubber-stamping department,
completely lacking the independence it is supposed to
have.
- Yours, etc.
Brian Hodkinson,
MIAI.,
Annaholty,
Birdhill,
Co. Tipperary.
© The Irish Times, 12th. October 2004.
