Bunratty Castle to reopen fully in April

BUNRATTY Castle & Folk Park will be open full time next month, Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton has told the Dáil.

The Galway TD was responding to questions from Deputy Cathal Crowe about the fate of Shannon Heritage sites.

“I understand that Bunratty Castle and King John’s Castle are currently open on a four-day-week basis until March 2022.

“I am pleased to advise the Deputy that it is envisaged that those sites will reopen fully in April.

“I am also happy to report that, as the public health restrictions put in place due to Covid were eased in the second half of 2021, visitor numbers to Shannon Heritage sites have increased.

“With the removal of all the restrictions and the return of transatlantic flights into Shannon Airport this month, I am confident that visitor numbers to the sites will continue to grow.”

Minister Naughton also relayed the fact that the OPW has agreed to re-engage on its maintenance responsibilities and role in respect of the maintenance of Bunratty Castle and King John’s Castle.

“In preparation for undertaking this role, the OPW has been carrying out the necessary assessments of both buildings to inform the programme of works needed and the associated costs. My Department continues to engage with the OPW in that regard,” she added