The Marquis of Sligo, Lord Jeremy Altamont, has welcomed a proposal by the recently elected Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Mr Peter Flynn (FG), to develop new links with the management of historic Westport House and estate.
Lord Altamont, or, as he prefers to be addressed, Jeremy Browne, said yesterday that he had not yet received any formal proposals from the council, but added that it was timely since the tourism industry in the region, was seriously floundering.
Browne confirmed that visitor numbers to Westport House for 2003 were down 20 per cent on the previous year and that this year's figures will show an even gloomier picture.
"I have always said that I strongly believe that government, both local and national, has not understood the concept of Westport House and what myself and my family have been endeavouring to achieve", said Browne yesterday. Browne manages the 18th century Palladian mansion and gardens with his wife, Jennifer, and five daughters.
There are also over 100 locals employed throughout the summer at the house and estate, which has direct links to 16th century pirate queen, Granuaile, a direct forebear of Browne's.
Citing the Heritage Council of Ireland as the main body to have provided financial support for the enterprise, he stressed that "while individual politicians and councillors have been wonderfully helpful, the institutions of the State have never converted any perceived interest into real and practical help".