South Dublin County Council’s Round Tower Visitor Centre in Clondalkin Chosen by Fáilte Ireland for its ‘Dublin’s Surprising Stories Grants Scheme’
Fáilte Ireland has recently announced that South Dublin County Council’s (SDCC) Round Tower Visitor Centre in Clondalkin has been chosen to receive funding of €51,000 as part of its ‘Dublin’s Surprising Stories Grants Scheme’ The announcement was made at Glasnevin Cemetery Museum by the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe T.D. The funding is part of Fáilte Ireland’s strategy to ensure continued growth and sustainability in the tourism industry and to support the development of world-class visitor attractions in the Dublin region.
The funding will be used by SDCCl to develop stories about monastic life and the Round Towers of Ireland with the development of multi-lingual audio tours in English, Irish, German, Polish and Spanish. Interpretation in the garden will be improved by introducing signage to inform visitors what plants and herbs were used within monastic life. A heated outdoor area will also offer a multipurpose space for both the local community and visitors alike. SDCC’s proposal has been approved in principle subject to further documentation being submitted to Fáilte Ireland by 8th May 2019. Other successful applicants of the ‘Dublin’s Surprising Stories Grants Scheme’ include Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, the GAA Museum at Croke Park, EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum and Newbridge House and Farm.
Minister Paschal Donohoe said, “Today’s significant announcement of grant funding is a vote of confidence in Dublin’s booming tourism sector with an estimated 6.4 million overseas visitors visiting the capital last year. Tourism is a vital element of our national economy with visitors generating an estimated €2.2 billion in overseas revenue and supporting 68,000 jobs in Dublin alone.”
Daniel McLoughlin, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council, said, “We are delighted to have received funding in principle for this fantastic project, which engages both locals and visitors with the fascinating history of the Round Tower and an exhibition that tells the story of over one thousand years of Clondalkin’s history and heritage.”
Paul Kelly, Fáilte Ireland Chief Executive said, “Dublin, like Fáilte Ireland’s other experience brands, is constantly evolving and we know that the modern tourist wants a more interactive and accessible experience. Our Dublin’s Surprising Stories Grant Scheme is all about bringing the great stories of Dublin and its people to life in a way that creates a genuine interest and unforgettable experience for the visitor.”
