Urgent Call for €5M Funding to Reopen Dunguaire Castle Now

UPDATE: The Government faces urgent pressure to back a €5 million funding request from Galway County Council aimed at reopening Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara. This historic site has been closed to the public for several years, and local officials stress that immediate action is needed to preserve this vital cultural landmark.

During a heated session in the Dáil, Galway East TD Louis O’Hara emphasized the pressing need for government support, stating, “It’s time for the Government to stop providing excuses and take action.” The castle, which attracts numerous visitors each year, is considered essential for both tourism and local heritage, reinforcing the urgency of the funding request.

Galway County Council requires this funding to cover crucial repair works and facilitate the transfer of management from the Shannon Group to the council. Without this financial support from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the future of Dunguaire Castle remains uncertain.

This appeal for funding comes amidst wider discussions around the preservation of Ireland’s cultural sites. As local authorities work tirelessly to restore historical landmarks, the community rallies behind the need for a swift resolution.

Next steps are crucial: If the government approves the funding, work could commence quickly, enabling the reopening of Dunguaire Castle to the public. The local community is hopeful that this significant funding will not only revive the castle but also boost the local economy through increased tourism.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops. The outcome of this funding request will have lasting implications for Kinvara’s cultural landscape and its economic vitality.