High wave damage to 16th century Doonmore Castle

Recent high waves have further damaged Doonmore Castle in Doonbeg harbour. Most of the damage to the ruins of the 16th century castle has been caused to the side facing the water.

Having been contacted by concerned Doonbeg people who feel that the castle may be a danger to the public walking in its vicinity, Mayor of Clare Christy Curtin confirmed that he has informed Clare County Council of the development.
“I brought it to the attention of Clare County Council and I’m awaiting a report,” Councillor Curtin told The Clare Champion on Wednesday.
The fort adjacent to the harbour was built by Philip Mac Sheeda Nor McCon. The annuals of the Four Masters refer to it as Dun More Mhic and Fhearnachaigh. At the end of the 16th century, Donough Mac Dermot Mac an Fhearmachaigh was in possession but Mahon MacGorman held title to one third of the castle and all of Donough’s land.
Sir Daniel O’Brien of Dough was listed as the owner in 1574. In 1594 Mahon MacGorman assigned his interest in the place to the Earl of Thomond.
Murrough MacGucarrick claimed the castle in 1619. Doonmore was confiscated by the Crown in 1688 and sold in 1703. It was classed as a ruin in 1837.
The original castle was considerably higher until a turret at the south-western corner fell soon after 1898, bringing most of the walls of the upper room with it.
The rest was pulled down soon afterwards, leaving only the lower portion, from the stone vault down, intact.