Clare County Council to keep seeking funds for Inis Cealtra upgrades

Clare County Council has confirmed it will continue to pursue funding for the development of Inis Cealtra, also known as Holy Island.

At a Killaloe Municipal District meeting, Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes asked the Tourism section for an update on plans to improve access, parking, visitor facilities, public realm and other infrastructure on the island. He noted the recent opening of the Inis Cealtra Visitor Centre in Mountshannon but said no further development work has taken place on the island itself.

Hayes highlighted issues such as sheep entering the island’s graveyard and the need for a clear plan to attract more tourists to East Clare. He stressed that securing funding is essential and asked whether any applications had been made.

Councillor Pat Burke mentioned that 1,358 people visited the Visitor Centre in June and observed a busy boat service to the island during summer, although exact visitor numbers are not recorded. He also criticised the maintenance of the Visitor Centre grounds in July.

Director of Service Siobhán McNulty said the council is awaiting Fáilte Ireland’s call for funding applications for island facilities and landing improvements, in partnership with Waterways Ireland. She confirmed the sheep‑graveyard issue has been resolved and that the council holds data on booked boat trips but not on casual visits.

Theresa Hughes Lannon, Acting Senior Executive Officer, recalled that An Coimisiún Pleanála approved upgrades – including welfare pods, a new jetty, and a car park – in October 2025, though funding has not yet been secured. Phase One of the project, including the Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience, has been operational since June 2025, with public‑realm enhancements completed and new bye‑laws in effect from 1 July 2026.

The Tourism, Festivals and Events Section will keep engaging with stakeholders as national funding streams are announced.

Source: Clare Champion. Photo: Oliver Schröder / Pexels.