Aontú representative Michael O’Dowd has criticised the OPW over its decision not to approve filming for The Traitors at Dowth, saying the move has cost the Boyne Valley a major tourism opportunity. Any filming would need to protect the archaeological importance of the site, but argued that a carefully managed arrangement could have showcased Dowth, Drogheda, and the wider Brú na Bóinne area to a large national and international audience.
He says
“Dowth forms part of the internationally significant Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site, alongside Knowth and Newgrange, and lies just outside Drogheda. Featuring the site in a major television production could showcase Dowth, Drogheda and the wider Boyne Valley to a huge national and international audience, generating valuable interest in our history, heritage and tourism offering.
It is disappointing that the producers of did not initially receive approval for their proposed filming at either Knowth or Dowth. While discussions reportedly continued around a more limited arrangement at Knowth, the refusal in relation to Dowth reflects an unnecessarily bureaucratic and stuffy approach.
The OPW’s restrictive attitude contrasts with the great work being done by the National Parks and Wildlife Service at Netterville, where the public is being encouraged to visit, engage with and appreciate this remarkable historic and natural landscape.
Any filming at Dowth would, of course, have to respect the archaeological importance and sensitivity of the site and operate under strict conditions. However, the answer should not automatically be “no.” The OPW should engage constructively with the programme’s producers and explore whether a carefully managed arrangement can be reached.
Our heritage must be protected, but it should also be shared. The OPW needs to lighten up, adopt a more imaginative approach and do its part to support tourism in Drogheda, County Meath and across the wider Boyne Valley.
This was an opportunity to showcase one of Ireland’s most extraordinary heritage sites to a huge audience. It should not be lost because of an overly bureaucratic, rigid and cautious attitude”.
