Latest news with #Kevin'Boxer'Moran
Agriland
3 hours ago
- Agriland
Free Admission Day to 70 Sites for National Heritage Week Opw
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced free admission to over 70 heritage sites on Saturday, August 16, to celebrate National Heritage Week 2025. This year's theme is 'Exploring Our Foundations' and invites visitors to delve into the building blocks of our heritage - not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped us. Speaking at the OPW launch of National Heritage Week at Portumna Castle, Minster of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran said: 'We are delighted to offer free admission on the opening day of Heritage Week, on Saturday, August 16. With over 70 heritage sites on offer, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy. "The theme of Heritage Week this year is very fitting with the range of conservation projects that the OPW has undertaken in recent times." Minister Moran noted that in April, the OPW announced the "much-anticipated" reopening of Barryscourt Castle in Cork. He said: "After an extensive programme of conservation and enhancement, this historic stronghold has once again opened its doors to the public, offering a renewed visitor experience at one of Ireland's most evocative medieval sites. "We are pleased to support National Heritage Week to ensure all individuals, groups, and families enjoy what is on offer at sites across the country". Martina Moloney, chair of the Heritage Council added: 'It's wonderful to see the OPW opening the gates of its remarkable heritage sites to everyone free of charge again this year. "I would encourage everyone to seize this opportunity to explore an OPW site - whether it's a towering medieval castle, a peaceful walled garden, or a historic house that tells the story of generations. According to Moloney, "National Heritage Week is a "time to step out and discover what's on your own doorstep". "Across the country, passionate local people are bringing their heritage to life through talks, walks, exhibitions and community celebrations. "This is a chance to connect with the stories, places, and traditions that shape who we are.' In support of the 20th anniversary of National Heritage Week being run by the Heritage Council, the OPW will once again host a significant programme of events. A Family Fun Day will take place at Glendalough, which will include a tour and Lego workshop. A specially curated tour will take place at Ross Castle, Co. Kerry where visitors can learn about the building's transformation from the medieval home of the Gaelic O' Donoghue's to an English military barracks and now a significant tourist attraction. Sligo Abbey will be the setting for 'Art in the Abbey', a day of charcoal drawing suitable for all ages. The abbey will also host a number of traditional Irish music and talks throughout Heritage Week.
Irish Independent
6 days ago
- Irish Independent
Visitors under 18 can visit OPW heritage sites for free next month
Most of the more than 700 heritage sites managed by the OPW are free to all, however some carry an entry fee. Admission to those fee-paying sites will be free of charge for under-18s next month in an extension to a current scheme allowing free entry for under-12s. 'I am delighted to announce that all u18s will have free entry to OPW heritage sites this August, as part of a new pilot scheme, We are fortunate to have such incredible castles, monuments and historic properties across the country that are invaluable educational resources,' Minister of State for the OPW, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, said. "I encourage all our young people to get out and explore their local heritage this summer. Our sites are the perfect backdrop to meet friends, explore a fascinating site and have a treat at the local cafe.' Sites that will be free for under-18s to visit next month include Roscrea Castle and Ormond Castle in Co Tipperary, the Blasket Centre in Co Kerry, and the Céide Fields in north Co Mayo, where there is still preserved evidence of Ireland's earliest farmers, dated to 3,500BC. Among the sites to visit in the capital are Dublin Castle and the Custom House Visitor Centre. There are just two exceptions to the free admission scheme for August – Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin and the Brú na Boinne Visitor Centre in Co Meath, famous for the Newgrange monument and Neolithic passage tombs. The OPW said the scheme will give young people 'the opportunity to explore and engage with their heritage during the summer period and ensure access for all, by removing financial barriers.'
Irish Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Politics
- Irish Daily Mirror
Plans to open historic buildings as Easter Rising visitor centre may take years
Plans to open a number of historic buildings in the capital as a visitor centre commemorating the Easter Rising may still take several years. Junior Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran has informed the Dáil that while the project is a priority for his Government, it wasn't yet possible to say when it would be open to the public. The buildings at 14-17 Moore Street have been at the centre of a major campaign to preserve them due to their historical significance to the 1916 Rising. The buildings were the headquarters of the Provisional Irish Government, and it is where a number of signatories of the Irish proclamation, including James Connolly and Patrick Pearse, surrendered from. The Government previously decided to accept the recommendations of the Moore Street Advisory Group to move ahead with a project to conserve the buildings and open it as a visitor site. However, Minister Moran admitted it was still too early to say when that would happen. Kevin "Boxer" Moran Under questioning from Sinn Féin TD, Aengus O Snodaigh, Minister Moran said: 'It is not possible, in advance of the approval of Ministerial Consent, to be precise about the timing of construction works; however, the project at Moore Street is a priority and it is anticipated that there will be meaningful progress onsite in 2026.' Deputy O'Snodaigh said there were concerns about dry rot other causes for the rotting of fabrics in the structure of the national monument . Mr Moran said: 'In response to concerns about fabric deterioration, including issues such as dry rot and timber decay, the OPW has engaged specialist consultants in historic timber, plaster, and wallpaper conservation. 'These experts have conducted targeted surveys and provided professional guidance to identify and mitigate risks to the buildings' most vulnerable features. These reports inform interim protective measures and I can assure the Deputy that the buildings are being carefully maintained and protected.' Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
The Journal
20-06-2025
- The Journal
Three arrested for €400,000 worth of vandalism at OPW site near Castletown House
THREE PEOPLE HAVE been arrested in connection with vandalism worth an estimated €400,000 at an Office of Public Works (OPW) site used by staff at Castletown House last month. The arrests were made this morning following a search operation conducted by gardaí at a number of homes in Celbridge, Co Kildare, located close to Castletown House estate. Two teenagers and a man in his 30s were detained by gardaí shortly after the search. Gardaí say the arrests relate to several separate incidents of criminal damage that occurred between 22 April and 4 May at Donaghcumper House. The property is used as a staging site for transporting OPW staff to nearby Castletown House, a historic estate at the centre of an 21-month controversy – as residents have opposed the OPW's proposals to use a narrow pedestrian walkway for heavy vehicles . Advertisement Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo Vehicles and facilities used by the OPW were targeted over the May Bank Holiday weekend at the site . Four OPW and contractor vehicles were overturned, allegedly using a teleporter which was later dumped in the River Liffey, while outbuildings and staff welfare units were set on fire and four CCTV towers were disabled after their wiring was cut. OPW OPW Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, described it as 'shocking and unacceptable' in a statement last month. Save Castletown Gate Protectors, a local group who have maintained a presence at the entrance to Castletown House in protest against the OPW for 18 months, similarly condemned the incident. The estimated cost of the damage was in the region of €400,000. The three are being held at garda stations in Kildare. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Agriland
02-06-2025
- General
- Agriland
OPW launches heritage research journal
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has launched a new Irish heritage studies journal showcasing original critical research rooted in the office's role in managing Ireland's state property portfolio, including 780 heritage sites and associated collections. In partnership with Gandon Editions, Irish Heritage Studies highlights original critical research focused on the extensive martial culture, built heritage, artistic collections, and national and international histories linked to Ireland's heritage sites and objects. The remit of the journal extends to the broader role of the OPW in Irish life over the past two centuries. The journal articles aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the remarkable collection of national heritage in OPW's care, and investigate new perspectives on aspects of its history. Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran said that as custodians of so much of Ireland's rich heritage, they are excited to launch Irish Heritage Studies. Minister Moran said: 'It will help to foster a deeper understanding of Ireland's cultural legacy and OPW's role in protecting and conserving that legacy. 'The journal will serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, inspiring preservation of our heritage and celebrating our nation's history. 'It also represents the first phase of OPW's plans to mark OPW200, the celebration of 200 years of OPW in Irish life.' Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran. Source: Sasko Lazarov (Photocall Ireland) Irish Heritage Studies also explores OPW's rich history, which ranges from civil engineering, famine relief, and loan administration to major building projects, and architectural and archaeological conservation and presentation. It aims to be a vital resource for schools and colleges, heritage professionals,and all those passionate about Ireland's history and its social and physical fabric. Every volume will feature new research findings focussing on aspects of Ireland's most iconic heritage sites. The first volume is available from OPW heritage sites. Copies are also available to order from the Gandon Editions website.
