The Office of Public Works (OPW) rejected a request from the production team of The Traitors Ireland to film at the prehistoric sites of Knowth and Dowth in County Meath. Internal emails reveal the state agency blocked the proposal due to concerns over archaeological sensitivity, ecological impact, and the risk of misrepresenting protected monuments for entertainment purposes.
Regulatory Rejection at Brú na Bóinne
The Brú na Bóinne World Heritage site, which includes the Neolithic passage tombs at Knowth and Dowth, is subject to strict conservation protocols. According to the OPW, the proposed filming was “not considered appropriate” for such a landscape. Agency officials specifically highlighted that activities at these monuments must support the “accurate interpretation of their significance.”
In internal correspondence, an OPW representative noted that the “highly sensitive” nature of the Dowth monument made the proposed infrastructure for the reality series disproportionate. The agency expressed concern that “misrepresenting the monument for entertainment risks undermining our educational remit.” Furthermore, the OPW flagged an ecological risk at Knowth, where the proposed filming schedule coincided with the nesting season of the sand martin bird population.
Fáilte Ireland’s Intervention and International Reach
The production sought to film at the sites to “showcase the landscape as part of a wider story set in Ireland’s ancient east.” Fáilte Ireland, the national tourism development authority, intervened in the process to support the application.
Despite Fáilte Ireland’s efforts to advocate for the production, the OPW maintained its stance. An assistant secretary general at the OPW stated that “Knowth is a small site with sensitive conditions so I am not sure if anything would work there to be honest.” The agency ultimately determined that the filming could not be accommodated due to the combined archaeological, conservation, and ecological considerations.
Future Trends in Filming at Sensitive Heritage Sites
Kite Entertainment, the production company behind The Traitors, confirmed that filming for the second series has concluded, with mission sites to be revealed when the show returns to RTÉ later this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was The Traitors Ireland refused permission to film at Knowth and Dowth?
The OPW refused permission citing archaeological, conservation, and ecological concerns. They determined the proposed filming was not appropriate for a World Heritage site and noted the risk of disturbing nesting sand martins at Knowth.
Does the OPW allow filming at other national monuments?
Yes. The OPW regularly facilitates filming at heritage sites where proposals are compatible with conservation requirements. They suggested alternative locations, such as Bective Abbey, to the production team.
What is the significance of the Brú na Bóinne site?
Its status requires the OPW to ensure all site activity aligns with its educational and protective remit.
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