5 May 2015

Simon Harris TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today (5 May 2015) officially opened the new viewing point at Mooghaun Hillfort, near Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare.

Speaking at the site Minister Harris said: "I am delighted to be here today to officially open the viewing point at Mooghaun Hillfort.  This is the largest fort of its type in Ireland and is of considerable historical and archaeological importance.  My office, the OPW, has beautifully constructed the platform using natural stone and concrete and the result you see before you provides a safe and pleasant way for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape".

An older viewing platform was removed as it had fallen into disrepair.  Subsequently, OPW met with Deputy Joe Carey TD and members of the OBAIR group and this resulted in the reinstatement of the facility.  OPW continues to liaise with Coillte to ensure that visitors get the best possible views of the countryside.

The Minister added: "These iconic surroundings are at the heart of a beautiful natural landscape and the Fort itself dates back to the late Bronze age. My Office is committed to carrying out additional and ongoing works to further enhance the visitor experience in Co. Clare.  I urge everyone to take the time to visit Mooghaun and enjoy all that this wonderful heritage site has to offer".

-Ends-

For further information or if you wish to interview Minister Harris please contact Colette Davis, OPW Press Officer – mobile 087 947 5552 or email colette.davis@opw.ie

Notes to Editors:

Mooghaun Hillfort is located close to Dromoland Castle and is accessed through the forestry lands nearby.  It dates back to 950 BC and is the largest fort of its type in Ireland.  It is a trivallate hillfort, i.e. it has three near circular ramparts - one contained within another.  The outer wall encloses just over 27 acres, the middle encloses seven acres and the inner two acres.  The rampart walls are over 11 metres wide in places and over two metres in height.

Photography from this event will be available from aidansweeneyphotography.com