This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Dewar secures future of Iona
17/09/1999
Scotland's First Minister Donald Dewar today secured the future of one of the country's most historic sites when he announced that Iona Abbey will be run by Historic Scotland.
The burial place of Scots kings and the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland will be safeguarded for future generations through a programme of repairs and conservation together with improved facilities for visitors.
Mr Dewar said:
"Iona has a unique position in the history of the nation and in the heart of many Scots. It has become clear that the Iona Cathedral Trustees can no longer maintain this historic monument and taking the Abbey into the care of Historic Scotland is the best solution to safeguard the site for future generations.
"Historic Scotland will ensure that the Abbey's spiritual appeal and the distinctive work of the Iona Community continues to thrive.
"The Abbey receives more than 100,000 visitors every year and Historic Scotland will use its experience to run the site in a sympathetic and unobtrusive way.
"The new arrangements will ensure free access to the Abbey for all islanders, staff and resident guests of the Iona Community and organised pilgrimage groups; continued use of the Abbey by the Iona community and allow daily services in the Abbey and chapel to continue. Visitors to the Abbey when services are not taking place will be charged for access.
"The island community can now look to the future with confidence as work to preserve one of the most famous heritage sites in the country can now proceed."
BACKGROUND
1. Historic Scotland is responsible for maintaining over 330 historic properties of national importance including Glasgow Cathedral, Dunblane Cathedral, the Border Abbeys and many other religious sites.
2. The Iona Cathedral Trust was set up 100 years ago to restore the Abbey and much of its early work was carried out through public subscription. The Trust currently owns the Abbey and associated grounds. In 1993 the Trust set up a charitable company - Iona Abbey Ltd - to maintain the site and raise money for improvements.
3. The Iona Community was founded as an ecumenical Christian commnuity in 1938 and occupies most of the site.
4. The island of Iona (but not the Abbey) has been in the care of the National Trust for Scotland since 1979.
News Release: SE0643/99
16 September, 1999