The future of dozens of workers hangs in the balance, following confirmation that Shannon Heritage will be forced to close its iconic sites in the Midwest in the new year.
Following a difficult financial year for Shannon Group and extensive dialogue with relevant state agencies, the decision has been reached to close heritage sites including Bunratty Castle and King John’s Castle in Limerick from January until April.
It comes amid calls on the Government to provide necessary support to keep the sites operational and maintain employment.
Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe has been telling Clare FM’s Fiona Cahill that the Government is committed to doing everything it can to keep the sites operational and workers in employment.
Clare FM has sought comment from Shannon Group and is awaiting a response.
The future of Shannon Heritage had been raised in the Dáil last night by Deputy Crowe, and by his Fianna Fáil colleague Willie O’Dea.
After they pressed for supports for Shannon Heritage, in order to benefit its staff, Minister Eamon Ryan argued that there needs to be a focus on the longer-term future of Shannon Group itself.
Shannon Group Statement
Commenting on its Shannon Heritage business, a Shannon Group spokesperson said: “Our heritage business, like businesses all over Ireland and internationally, have been devastated as a result of the pandemic.
“The challenge is that the Shannon Heritage operation is hugely dependent on international visitors, and visitor numbers to our sites have been down over 80% this year. Traditionally Shannon Heritage makes the majority of its income over the summer season and the money it generates in that period allows us keep Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and King John’s Castle open throughout winter. The effects of the pandemic have resulted in the business incurring significant losses and with continued Covid uncertainty, government guidelines and lack of international traffic, we will regretfully not be in a position to open King John’s Castle and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park to the public from early January until Easter 2021.
“We will retain a team to plan for the 2021 season and ensure all sites are maintained. Our focus now is on protecting our employees’ jobs in the long-term which requires difficult short-term measures so that we can survive, recover and rebuild. This has been a very difficult time for our employees, we are continuing to communicate with them and their union representatives on this matter,” said the spokesperson.
