Inis Oírr Lighthouse will open its doors to the public this weekend for the first time, giving people a unique opportunity to visit the lighthouse and discuss its future.
Comhar Caomhán Teoranta, in partnership with Údarás na Gaeltachta and Irish Lights, is inviting the community of Inis Oírr to attend the lighthouse open day and public meeting in Áras Éanna this Saturday, April 11.
Building on From Vision to Operation, a practical guide to community led lighthouse development published officially in Dublin Castle in October, the event invites members of the public to play an active part in the future of the lighthouse.
Eimear Ní Mhathúna of Teach Solais Fhánada will speak at the event on her experience through the success of Forbairt Fánada, which signed a 20 year lease on the Donegal Lighthouse last summer.
"Today offers a unique opportunity for the community in Inis Óirr to come together and have their input into the future of their lighthouse," said Meadbh Seoighe, Tourism Development Manager in Údarás na Gaeltachta. "The public will have the chance to share their interest in the proposed project, while hearing about the success of Fánad Lighthouse. We hope to inspire the community to come together on this amazing opportunity."
All will be welcome on Saturday to visit the lighthouse, which is now open to the public for the first time, and come together at a public open discussion in Áras Éanna.
The lighthouse will be open to the public from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, giving people the opportunity to view the tower and the houses from the inside. Guests will also be able to explore the grounds, and climb to the top of the tower where they can enjoy scenic views of Inis Oírr and its surrounding waters.
This will be followed by an open discussion on the future vision for the lighthouse, taking place from 3pm to 5pm.
All those attending will be invited to share their thoughts on the lighthouse and there will be an open discussion on visions for the future of the structure. Guest speakers include Eimear Ní Mhathúna of Teach Solais Fánada and Sean Ó Gallachóir and Tina Nic Eafarartaith of Teach Solais an Fhóid Duibh.
