Visitor initiatives at Derrynane Park
On June 24th last I travelled to Derrynane, Co, Kerry to launch four 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 at the event I noted that 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.
‘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.
‘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.’