*Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), County Clare, Ireland.
FUNDING has yet to be secured for the next phase of improvements at Holy Island and Mountshannon, with councillors seeking clarity on plans to develop the historic island and improve access for visitors.
The update was given at the September meeting of the Killaloe Municipal District following a motion from Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), who sought details on planned works, funding arrangements and expected timelines for Inis Cealtra, also known as Holy Island.
In a written response, Acting Senior Executive Officer for Tourism Theresa Hughes Lannon said An Coimisiún Pleanála granted approval for the proposed upgrades at Inis Cealtra and Mountshannon in October 2025.
The plans include new welfare facilities on the island, upgrades to the existing jetty, a new car park in Mountshannon village, improvements to the harbour car park and a future-proofed visitor centre.
However, Ms Hughes Lannon said funding had not yet been secured and a timeline for the next phase could not be established until an appropriate funding stream was identified.
The first phase of the project has already delivered the Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience in Mountshannon, which has been operational since June 2025, alongside public realm improvements linking Main Street, Aistear Park and Mountshannon Harbour.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Hayes said significant work had been carried out but questioned what would happen next to improve the island itself.
He said Holy Island was a major attraction for East Clare and that a clear plan was needed to develop its facilities and make it more accessible to visitors.
“We need to look more ahead and improve the island itself,” he said.
Cllr Pat Burke (FG), who seconded the motion, said the maintenance of the grounds had been “very disappointing” and questioned how many people visiting the new centre in Mountshannon were also travelling to the island.
He said the landing point and pier would need to be considered as part of future improvements, particularly to make it easier for older visitors to get on and off boats.
Director of Service for Tourism, Recreation, Libraries and Cultural Services Siobhan McNulty described Inis Cealtra as a “unique experience” and said its development would be a “slow burn”.
She said the island was a national monument and that the council had a number of projects to deliver. The council would also examine potential funding through Fáilte Ireland, although the next steps would depend on the funding available and which body took the lead.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
