merrion street

Minister Seán Canney, TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief today (24 June) was in Derrynane House to launch four interconnected visitor initiatives for Derrynane National Historic Park.
Included in the launch were the new Seashore Nature Trail, the 2016 ‘Discover Derrynane’ family activity weekend, a new website for Derrynane House and the consultation process for the Draft Derrynane Conservation Management Plan.
Speaking today, Minister Canney said: “I am delighted to be here in Derrynane, launching these very exciting initiatives for the House and the Park. Derrynane House and Park is a unique and historic site and the new Seashore Nature Trail, which has been completely updated with new information, technology and site characteristics, is a wonderful resource to help visitors learn about its unique environment”.

Derrynane House is the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell and the house is now a museum dedicated to the life of Daniel O'Connell and his great achievements. Recent improvement works to the House include a new Visitor and Reception entrance, the installation of a lift together with accessibility works in the courtyard and a redesign of the exhibition spaces with improved graphics and signage.

Minister Canney encouraged observations on the Draft Conservation Management Plan saying “My Office, the Office of Public Works, has an important conservation remit to maintain built heritage in State Care and I would encourage all those interested in the essence and cultural significance of Derrynane to submit their observations on our new website”.
Welcoming the 2016 ‘Discover Derrynane’ weekend Minister Canney concluded “Derrynane is a Discovery Point on the hugely successful Wild Atlantic Way and the range of activities and events planned here this weekend, in partnership with organisations such as the National Biodiversity Data Centre, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, eTrek, Seasynergy and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, demonstrates the importance my Office places on community, heritage and educational initiatives and I have no doubt the weekend will be enjoyed by all”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Derrynane House and National Historic Park is a Discovery Point on Fáilte Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way route.
Located 3.5km from Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry.
Services include an audio-visual theatre, tea-rooms, parking and toilet facilities.
Information on fees and opening times available on www.heritageireland.ie
Discover Derrynane Weekend – 24/25/26 June 2016 – full details on free activities and events including the new Seashore Trail, guided walks, workshops and family activities on the website www.derrynanehouse.ie

Derrynane Conservation Management Plan was developed for Derrynane House and National Historic Park in 2015 and this is now being launched for public consultation. It is available for viewing on the website www.derrynanehouse.ie