Phase one of the project focussed on establishing a solid membership base and on the development of discussion groups. The second phase has been underway since June 2001, and concentrates on development of the resources provided through this site, and on expansion of the subject areas covered. The main problem faced at this point is in finding experts in certain fields of study prepared to undertake the management of online discussions. The subject areas (notably in the sciences) where gaping holes still exist can readily be seen by scanning through the links to the left of the screen. Potential volunteers are, of course, encouraged to offer their services by emailing us at IRQUAS.

Access to subject areas is provided through the links bar above, or through the more detailed Quick-links panel on the left. Each subject page offers some general information, instant discussion group membership, access to discussion archives, some useful web links, and more. Some also provide access to relevant downloadable documents and online databases, and these facilities will gradually expand as more material becomes available.

The Databases links point to pages devoted to the output of some of our mini-projects, though these are, for now at least, somewhat sparse on content. If they are of interest, however, do revisit them as they are currently being populated with data on an ongoing basis.

The HIPNO Project link points to the homepage of our major project: the digitisation and modification of data from the 19th century Ordnance Survey 6" map series, to which later project phases will add topographic and archaeological data, thus making it a tool of use to those interested in cartography, geography, genealogy, place name studies, and archaeology alike.

It need hardly be said that this site and the project underlying it are now, and for the forseeable future will be, in a state of ongoing development and change. The range of subject areas covered is constantly expanding. So, too, is the variety of facilities provided. News on new developments will be posted periodically on the New Developments page, while future plans can be accessed through the Coming Soon... link.

It is our policy to encourage discussion, sharing and openess. These have become the hallmark of IRQUAS discussion groups. We are also open to your comments on the concept of IRQUAS, this website's content, and suggestions for improvements and new directions for expansion. All comments can be addressed to the IRQUAS Project Manager at maqqi@indigo.ie.

Thanks for visiting, and enjoy the site!