THE MINUTE books of New Ross Town Council could soon be available to view by members of the public if plans by the local authority are realised.

The matter was discussed recently by councillors who all expressed support for the plans.

Cllr. John Dwyer made reference to the fact the Co. Council had advertised for a number of archivists to be appointed on CE scheme.

“Maybe we could piggy back on top of that?” he asked.

He then made specific reference to the Town Council’s Minute books which are among the best preserved documents of their type in the country.

“We need to look at the minutes of New Ross Town Council,” he said.

“They are fantastic documents and some are in Latin,” he added.

The Town Clerk, Ger Mackey, then informed the members that plans were in place to make the Tholsel available as a showcase centre.

“We hope to make the Council Chamber available as an exhibition space,” he said.

“We would hope to get that up in operation before Christmas,” he added.

Mr. Mackey also said the process had begun to have the books translated.

The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Paul Crowdle, described the documents as being “National treasures”.

“They are one of – if not the oldest – minute books in the country,” added Mr. Mackey.

Cllr. Michael Sheehan expressed congratulations to everyone involved in translating the books and the plans to put them on public display.

“Cllr. Dwyer has been pushing this for some time,” he said.

“Anthony Bailey [the Rapid Co-ordinator] had a lot to do with it too,” added Mr. Mackey.