The Department of Transport has confirmed that its funding supports to Shannon Heritage is more than 2 million euro less than had initially been expected.
While it had been expected that 2.6 million euro would be made available to allow Bunratty and King John’s Castles stay open, the actual amount provided is instead around €550,000.
The sites will remain open until the end of the year.
In late August, when Bunratty and King John’s Castles were on the brink of closing for the winter season, local government representatives publicly welcomed news that €2.6 million was to be provided to keep both sites open.
This amount had been sought by Shannon group, but following further engagement, the Department has confirmed to Clare FM that the necessary funding required is in the region of €550k, and this is what’s being provided by government.
The money will still enable the sites to remain open, keeping 52 works in place, and the Department insists that the Minister is committed to ensuring both sites receive the appropriate supports.
It’s understood that the discrepancy in funding covers a number of planned capital works.
But Clare Sinn Féin TD Violet-Anne Wynne says she’s concerned about the ambiguity impacting on workers.
A spokesperson for Shannon Group has told Clare FM they are still awaiting final details of the funding to be provided, but they understand it will cover the incremental operational losses of keeping Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and King John’s Castle open until the end of the year.
