Local TD welcomes huge funding for Seir Kieran site in Clareen

Independent TD for Laois Offaly, Carol Nolan, has warmly welcomed news that an allocation of €85,000 has been awarded under the Community Monuments Fund for the important site of Seir Kieran in Clareen.

Deputy Nolan, who has strongly supported funding applications for the site in previous years has also praised the unstinting commitment of the local community and in particular the Heritage Officer for Offaly County Council, Amanda Pedlow for their efforts in securing the funding.

It is understood that works are now beginning on site with local contractor Frank Murray carrying out the lime mortar repairs, and the conservation team led by John Kelly Conservation Engineers working with Conservation Architect Rachel McKenna.

Ms Pedlow of Offaly County Council has also confirmed that Denis Shine from the Irish Heritage School in Birr is the archaeologist for the works.

“This is a marvelous development for Clareen and for the preservation of the beautiful site at Seir Kieran,” said Deputy Nolan.

“We need to see a lot more of this type of funding because there is a vast wealth of ancient heritage out there that need critical and timely interventions which can only be effectively brought about when funding is allocated,” concluded Deputy Nolan.