The Scottish and Irish Governments are to work together on conservation works for the Four Courts building in Dublin, it has been revealed.

The pledge comes after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and the OPW Heritage Service in March.

The deal provides a basis for both organisations to share experiences, expertise and knowledge, focusing particularly on conservation-related activities.

Under the MoU, stonemasons from HES and OPW will work together at the Engine Shed in Stirling to carve one of the replacement Corinthian capitals for the Four Courts building.

A total of 24 capitals support the main dome, however a number of these have become significantly eroded and degraded over time, requiring repair or replacement with new carved capitals. Once finished, the completed carved capital will be transported to Dublin and installed in the Four Courts this autumn.

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Earlier this month, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop met with Ireland's Minister of State for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief Kevin Moran to announce the collaboration.

Speaking at the Four Courts, Ms Hyslop said: "Historic Environment Scotland and The Office of Public Works have a great deal in common and this partnership is based on sharing experiences, expertise and knowledge.

"The strong historic, cultural and economic ties between the two countries underpin the relationship and the Four Courts project is a great way of strengthening those ties."

OPW Minister Kevin Moran said: "The project will see a new large capital carved for the magnificent Four Courts building. This will be done by stonemasons from both organisations at the Engine Shed, Scotland's new national building conservation centre in Stirling, before being shipped to Dublin.

"I am very happy that this relationship will not alone provide us with a key part of the replacement stonework we need for the Four Courts, but will also have the added benefit of exposing some of our best Irish craftsmen in stone to a unique opportunity to learn from their Scottish counterparts and to showcase the talents of both in public."

(LM/MH)