Shannon Heritage employees say they’re growing weary and are disappointed at what they say are ‘constant delays’ in the transfer of three of its sites to Clare County Council.
It’s after the local authority told elected members it now needs a funding commitment from Government to complete the transfer of the facilities to its operation.
Clare County Council told representatives last evening it is continuing to work with Shannon Group on the process to acquire the operation of Knappgoue Castle, Craggaunowen and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.
However, the local authority says it needs a financial commitment from the State to move forward.
The Council says while a recruitment process for a small number of tourism roles at the sites will begin shortly, it needs staff costs, capital refurbishments and conservation works covered before it can go further.
Council CEO Pat Dowling told the meeting that he’s hopeful of the transfer being completed before September, with a South East Clare Councillor saying funding from Government is urgently needed to meet this timeline.
Sixmilebridge-based Fianna Fail Councillor Alan O’ Callaghan believes the maintenance of the sites coming into the summer period is particularly important.
Shannon Group CEO Mary Considine has also told Clare FM that ther’’s a real willingness from both parties to complete discussions and the legal process quickly.
However, staff at the facility say the continued extension of the time the transfer is taking is becoming a frustrating process.
Dolores Marron, who’s a member of the SIPTU workers’ committee and a spokesperson for Shannon Heritage employees, says they’re aware a lot of money is needed to complete the transfer of the sites to the Council.
