The Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan and the Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers welcomed the transfer of Shannon Heritage from The Shannon Airport Group to Clare County Council. The necessary consents to enable the transfer have been provided by Minister Ryan and the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe.

The management and operation of a number of heritage sites in County Clare including Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Craggaunowen and Knappogue Castle will transfer to the Council. Government is pleased to be supporting the transfer through a significant funding package including the provision of up to €6 million to Clare County Council this year.

Speaking about the transfer, Minister Ryan said, “I am delighted that the transfer of Shannon Heritage from the Shannon Airport Group to Clare County Council is now complete. Not only does this transfer offer security for the future of the business and heritage sites, it is also especially important in providing continuity of employment for the staff of Shannon Heritage.”

Minister of State Jack Chambers said, “this agreement is the culmination of extensive effort and engagement from both Shannon Airport Group and Clare County Council, and I would like to thank them for the sustained commitment they have shown to reach this point. These sites are of huge cultural value, and I believe the transfer will ensure their continued access by the community and wider public.”

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, also welcomed the news, stating, “the transfer of Shannon Heritage to Clare County Council is a positive move for all concerned. I believe Clare County Council will fully realise the great potential these sites have to complement and augment the tourism offering in Clare, bringing more visitors to Clare and the wider region.”

Minister of State with responsibility for Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, said, “Bunratty Castle, a National Monument, will now transfer to Clare County Council. I look forward to the OPW continuing its engagement with the Council in relation to the conservation of the castle, safeguarding it for future generations to come.”