The Avondhu

OPW’s reticence on Conna Castle criticised

MARIAN ROCHE

The OPW’s lack of communication as to the status of works and access at Conna Castle has once again come up for criticism.

Cllr William O'Leary recently brought the issue up at a council meeting, asking the Northern Committee of Cork County Council to write to the OPW with respect to the works.

The castle was willed to the State in 1915, and was actively taken in care by the OPW in 2015 who promptly closed it to the public. The surrounding grounds continue to be accessible to the community and visitors. Since then, communication with the public has, according to Mr O'Leary, been 'halted and staggering.'

The Rathcormac-based councillor said that he had written to the OPW ‘a few times’ since last Christmas, and has not yet been granted a reply.

“It’s a big part of my grievance. The fact that the OPW have failed to engage with the local community is not good enough from a government agency. Both they and I have taken every avenue possible, but the OPW aren’t engaging with us”.

Furthermore, Cllr O’Leary says the ‘big thing’ is the lack of a timeline for the works.

Conna, he says, is missing out on some tourist potential too. Recalling the days of concerts and picnics at Conna, Cllr O’Leary says he’s under ‘no illusions’ as to how much money and work would be required to bring it back to that kind of standard, but stressed that essentially a plan needs to be in place for any work.

In the Oireachtas last year, Pádraig O’Sullivan TD sought an update from Minister Patrick O’Donovan, who did not give a firm timeline but only referenced the next phase of works, the replacement of some timber elements with stone. He also confirmed that OPW officials would ‘engage with local contacts in this regard to make suitable arrangements’ to visit the castle.

Following this interaction, the OPW confirmed to The Avondhu that: “The tower itself is closed but may be visited under supervision with prior notice.”

“Interested members of the public are welcome to contact (022) 42278 or the local caretaker to arrange a visit.”

The OPW have been contacted by The Avondhu for a response.

FRONT PAGE

en-ie

2023-03-30T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-03-30T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://avondhu.pressreader.com/article/281479280674226

The Avondhu (Ireland)