October 17, 2007

Mr. Vincent Salafia
c/o TaraWatch
Suite 108, The Capel Building
Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7, Ireland

Dear Mr Salafia,

The Massachusetts Archaeological Society is a non-profit, tax-exempt organisation founded in 1939 whose purpose is to stimulate the study of archaeology, particularly in Massachusetts; to promote and encourage scientific research in this field; to conserve archaeological sites, data and artifacts; to assist in the dissemination of archaeological information; to seek through education to substitute intelligent work for misdirected archaeological activity; to seek to prevent the collection of archaeological specimens for commercial purposes; to serve as a bond between all students of archaeology; and to foster a more rational public understanding of the aims and limits of archaeological research.

In the course of our work, we are frequently called upon by public officials to comment upon proposed threats to important archaeological sites and landscapes. We have consistently advocated for the preservation, and proper archaeological investigation of these sites.

The proposed construction of a major motorway through the Tara Archaeological Complex has been brought to our attention by our members. Our Board of Trustees voted unanimously, at its meeting of September 8th, 2007, to oppose this project. We wish to express to you our concerns over this development proposal, since it will adversely affect the archaeological integrity of an entire significant landscape. Many of our members are Irish-Americans, and they have particular concerns about this. We strongly support your efforts to raise public consciousness in Ireland to preserve the Tara Archaeological complex, and we encourage you to share this letter with the appropriate parties.

Very truly yours,

Tonya Largy, President

Curtiss Hoffman, Corresponding Secretary