The Michael Cusack Heritage Centre has described its new relationship with Dr Mary McAleese as a gamechanger for its future.
The former Irish President became the honorary patron of the institution following a ceremony in Carron yesterday.
Dr McAleese has promised to strengthen her ties with the institution following a celebratory occasion in Carron, in a wide ranging speech she spoke of her deep admiration for Micheal Cíosog, who rose from the bleakness of Black 47 to create the Gaelic Athletic Association.
141 years on, Dr McAleese has been charged with the integration of the GAA, Camogie Association and LGFA into one umbrella organisation, a feat that will be completed in 2027, coinciding with the next world GAA games.
Dr McAleese previously attended the European games in Rome where she described meeting young people from all nations who had no social or family connection to Ireland, but found community in their local gaelic games.
She says this encapsulated the vision Michael Cusack set out for the game and she’s hopeful crowds will be drawn to the heritage centre for the world games in 2027 and that she’s committed to increasing her presence there.
The birthplace of the GAA founder is now focusing its attentions on further expanding business opportunities through a new five-year strategic plan.
The centre is also expecting a footfall boost from the new Burren and Cliffs Explorer shuttle bus service.
There’s other plans too such as expanding the Samhain Púca story telling festival from a two-day to nine-day event due to its success.
Manager Tim Madden is highly confident the new relationship with Dr McAleese will allow the establishment to prosper.
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