Hill of Tara nominated for endangered list

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 (UPI) -- The World Monuments Watch in New York said Ireland's Hill of Tara is a nominee for the group's list of endangered sites.

The nonprofit group said the site was nominated for the World Monuments Fund -- List of 100 Most Endangered Sites because it is being put in danger by the development of the M3 motorway, additional construction projects and neglect.

The group, which aims to protect monuments threatened by neglect, vandalism, armed conflict or natural disaster, said a decision on whether to include the Hill of Tara is due in June.

"This nomination takes our campaign to a new level, internationally," said Vincent Salafia of TaraWatch, a group that aims to protect the hill.

"We are extremely hopeful that the government (will) think twice before signing the 30 year construction and tolling contract."

"The sustainable alternatives must be urgently reviewed, particularly in light of the new data and EU rules on transport carbon emissions and climate change."

The Hill of Tara is a ridge that is the site of contains a number of ancient monuments. It is believed to have been the seat of the High King of Ireland until the 6th century.