Minister Kevin Moran (OPW) Visits Scattery Island to Highlight the Island’s Heritage and Support Conservation Efforts

Kevin 'Boxer' Moran TD, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today visited Scattery Island (Inis Cathaigh), Co. Clare, to highlight the island’s exceptional heritage value, celebrate recent conservation achievements, and promote public engagement with one of Ireland’s most significant and scenic National Monuments.

Located two kilometres from Kilrush in the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island is a place of remarkable spiritual and cultural importance. The island features over 1,500 years of history, from early monastic settlements to vernacular village life. The OPW, which assumed care of the island in 1989, manages seasonal guided tours and is responsible for ongoing conservation of the island’s built and natural heritage.

Speaking during the visit, the Minister stated:

“Scattery Island is a national treasure and a unique landscape that weaves together early Christian history, military heritage, and traditional island life. The OPW’s work here protects this important legacy while making it freely accessible to the public. I encourage anyone with an interest in Ireland’s past or simply in exploring somewhere extraordinary to plan a visit this summer.”

Scattery Island is home to an extraordinary ensemble of historic structures, including:

• A Romanesque cathedral and round tower linked to St. Senan, who founded a monastery here in 543 AD
• Several early churches, including Knocknanangel Church, located at the highest point of the island
• A Napoleonic battery and a nineteenth-century lighthouse
• A restored terrace of 19th-century vernacular cottages, known as ‘The Street’, which now house visitor interpretation and traditional furnishings recreated by OPW craftspeople

The OPW operates a free guided tour service from May to September, seven days a week, with access provided by ferry from Kilrush Marina.

Plan Your Visit

Scattery Island is open to the public from May to September, with free admission and guided tours provided by the OPW. Ferry services operate from Kilrush Marina, and visitors are encouraged to explore the island’s unique blend of history, nature, and tranquillity.

For further information, visit www.heritageireland.ie or contact Scattery Island Tours for ferry bookings.

NOTES

OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

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