OPW: Office of Public Works
Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí
Swiss Cottage 200 Year Anniversary Celebrations
Tuesday July 13th 2010
PRESS RELEASE
This Saturday, July 17th 2010, sees a series of events taking place to mark the 200th anniversary of the construction of the Swiss Cottage, Cahir, County Tipperary. The festivities will be held between 12 noon and 5pm and admission to the famous cottage is free of charge for the day.
Speaking about the bi-centenary, Minister of State at the Department of Finance, with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Dr.Martin Mansergh T.D. said: "The Swiss Cottage is one of the most charming examples of the 'cottage orné' style and so called because it closely resembles alpine homes of that particular period. The cottage has been painstakingly and lovingly restored by the Office of Public Works since 1985 and was opened to the public in 1989. It is a very well loved and popular tourist attraction and this Saturday's festivities represent an excellent opportunity for the public to visit this beautiful cottage and location".
Among the events taking place on the day will be an angling demonstration, a live display by the Southern Regional Fisheries Board and Inland Fisheries of fish, macro invertebrates, plants and insects that are present in the River Suir, woodland walks conducted by Coillte, an introduction to the birds of Cahir Park by Birdwatch Ireland. Also taking place will be a series of demonstrations of traditional crafts such as thatching, traditional wallpaper making, traditional plasterwork, stone-carving, willow basket making and copper artwork. Many of these demonstrations will involve audience participation on the day.
The Minister continued: "The events will take place on a large grassed area between the bridge and the Swiss Cottage. Why not park in Cahir Castle carpark and follow in the footsteps of the Earl and Countess of Glengall by strolling along the 1.6km riverside walk to the Swiss Cottage? I am looking forward to attending the celebrations on Saturday myself and hope to see as many people as possible attend this wonderful attraction".
Ends.
For further information contact: -
Kevin Kennedy, OPW Press Office, (01) 647 6159 or (087) 930 3888