The managers of some of Ireland's most famous heritage sites last night gathered in Ennis, Co Clare, in a step towards establishing a Local Community Heritage Network in the county.
The new group is to link all heritage groups, associations and individuals with the aim of promoting and preserving such established tourist attractions as the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, Aillwee Cave, Knappogue Castle and Pol an Ionáin cave in Doolin.
According to the council's acting heritage officer Tomás Mac Conmara: "The intention of the Clare Heritage Office is to establish a broad communication network for groups and individuals who relate in any way to natural, built or cultural heritage in the county."
Mr Mac Conmara added that this two-way communication channel would be complemented by a number of other initiatives such as the establishment of an online forum for anyone involved or interested in local heritage. The establishment of a countywide Heritage Network forms part of the Clare Heritage Plan.
According to Mr Mac Conmara: "Objectives highlighted for community initiatives and education in the heritage plan include the development of local community networks for heritage interest, the identification and promotion of flagship projects and innovative demonstration projects, and the production of heritage resource material for community networks and groups on heritage issues."
He added: "It is imperative that such a network is available to ensure that all opinions in the county are accessible and that all relevant groups and individuals have an opportunity to input into the heritage plan preparation." Recently appointed manager of the new €1 million Michael Cusack Visitor Centre in the Burren, Paddy Maher last night described the network as another positive move toward establishing a collaborative approach to promoting and preserving the county's vast and rich heritage.
He said: "Co-operating in a county-wide arrangement like this enables you to bring together all of the many people who are engaged in various aspects of Clare heritage.
"This, in turn, enables you to develop county themes, pool resources, save money and expand your marketing potential."
Mr Mac Conmara said: "Strengthening the obvious links between tourism and heritage can do more for local economies than being promoted separately but this link cannot be created alone.
"Its success is dependent on co-operation between operators and enthusiasts. It takes teams of players working together."
