Having worked with a group of concerned citizens regarding the sudden removal of a viewing platform at Mooghaun Hillfort, Newmarket-on-Fergus and also with Minister of State for Public Service Reform and the OPW Brian Hayes, I have  received positive news in relation to the issue.

The viewing platform was removed from the site with no notice or consultation. The platform was a unique feature of Mooghaun as it offered such magnificent views. Its removal together with the associated information board was a real tragedy and one many local people took issue with.

I previously received confirmation from Minister Brian Hayes that the OPW were committed to re-constructing the viewing platform at Mooghaun Hillfort, Newmarket-on-Fergus.

I have now received confirmation that the final grant of consent for the work from the Department of Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht, was processed on October 3rd last.

A significant amount of work is underway at present, and a large element of this is happening off site, such as the prefabrication of the gabions and the stone cutting for the steps and top paving.

Some tree clearing work needs to take place, and it is envisaged that the clearance will be able to commence once documentation has been reviewed and provided in relation to health and safety and other matters.

 

I am informed by the Minister that there are no substantial issues to be resolved in relation to this project and that his hope is that the project will now be completed by soon

I must pay tribute to the local group who brought this matter to my attention and to Minister Hayes for bringing about this resolution. The group and I are looking forward to the viewing platform being restored to its rightful place at the earliest opportunity.”

*Note to editors The Hillfort at Mooghaun South was built at the beginning of the Late Bronze Age, around 950 BC. At this time Mooghaun was the largest and most important site in south-east Clare. The Hillfort occupies the entire hillside and has commanding views over south-east Clare and the estuaries of the River Shannon to the south and the River Fergus to the west. of Ennis and further afield for many more generations to