Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
74. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if his Department will consider purchasing or long-term leasing a building adjacent to the OPW-managed Ennis Friary site, so that a visitor and interpretative centre could be considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19784/24]
View answerEnnis Friary, Ennis, Co. Clare is in State Ownership under National Monument number 170. Ennis Friary was vested under the care of the Office of Public Works in the late 19th century. The Friary, founded by the O’Briens of Thomond, dates to the early 13th century and is home to a unique collection of stone panel carvings dating to the 15th century. The building contains an exceptional wealth of fifteenth- and sixteenth-century sculptures carved in the local hard limestone, including one of St Francis himself displaying the stigmata.
The OPW guide service operates daily from March to November, from 10am to 6pm. In 2023, Ennis Friary welcomed 15,181 visitors, showing a notable increase from the previous year's visitor numbers of 11,032. With a significant increase in numbers visiting the Friary, the OPW has a focused effort on improving and upgrading the current visitor experience within the site.
Currently, our primary objective is to improve the existing resources and structures at Ennis Friary to deliver an engaging and educational experience for visitors. To enhance the visitor experience, we are implementing comprehensive upgrades at Ennis Friary. Our ongoing plans include a complete overhaul of the exhibition signage, encompassing internal displays, external wayfinding panels, and directional signage. Additionally, new information panels will be introduced, to increase engagement and understanding of the site's significance. Furthermore, we are establishing a new guide accommodation unit to facilitate OPW guides on site.
At present, the current exhibition upgrade within the existing parameters will adequately provide visitors an enriching and informative experience at Ennis Friary.
The OPW also currently run a guide service on Scattery Island in Co. Clare from May to September, with a visitor centre on the island operating during these months. There were 4713 visitors to Scattery Island in 2023. A short boat trip will take you to the island, where you can explore its multi-layered, 1,500-year history.
In addition, The OPW continues to explore future options for unguided sites within Co. Clare such as Quin Friary and Clare Abbey. These are currently open to visitors on an unguided basis and will be included in any future plans for OPW services in Co. Clare. Any future plans for improved visitor experience in Co. Clare will also include considerations for a visitor centre.
The OPW is committed to the continual improvement of heritage sites and facilities across the country.
