Threats to ancient monastic site in Offaly highlighted

At a World Wetlands Day celebration in Clara, organised by the Brosna River Trust and hosted by Clara Heritage Society, serious concerns were raised about threats facing some of Ireland’s most significant sacred and wetland landscapes, most notably the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise and the River Shannon Callows, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Anna Orman of the Offaly Industrial Heritage Conservation Network outlined the potentially damaging implications of a proposed Bord na Móna/SSE Renewables wind farm at Drumlosh, Cornafulla Bog. She explained that the development would be located just over a mile from the ancient site and would border the Shannon Callows on three sides for approximately five kilometres. She stressed that the proposal could pose a serious risk to the integrity of both Clonmacnoise, a designated National Monument of international significance, and the River Shannon Callows SAC, which is a breeding ground for whooper swans.

The project will undergo a pre-planning consultation with An Coimisiún Pleanála to determine whether it qualifies as Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID). Energy infrastructure is classified as SID if it includes a wind farm with more than 25 turbines or a total output exceeding 50 megawatts. Although the public is notified of pre-planning consultations, they are not permitted to participate in these discussions. If classified as SID, the planning application is submitted directly to An Coimisiún Pleanála rather than to the local authority.

This information was met with widespread dismay. Many in attendance expressed shock and concern that a development could be contemplated which might negatively impact such a treasured and irreplaceable national heritage site.

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In contrast, Tara McGrath spoke about the successful campaign in 1984 that led to Clara Bog being designated as a Special Area of Conservation. She highlighted how the collective efforts of the local community, supportive politicians, academics, and environmental experts ultimately resulted in the protection of one of Europe’s finest remaining examples of a raised bog. Her contribution demonstrated the power of community action in safeguarding natural and cultural heritage.

Drawing on this example, Anna Orman noted that the only real hope of eliminating the current risk to Clonmacnoise lies in a similar coming together of communities, academics, experts, and politicians to ensure the site’s protection for future generations.

Clonmacnoise, however, is not the only sacred landscape under threat. Ciara Egan of the Lemanaghan Heritage Group outlined how the Lemanaghan monastic site and pilgrim way are also vulnerable. Following recent storm damage, ancient human remains were revealed at the site, highlighting both its archaeological significance and fragility.

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Attendees also heard positive news about restoration work taking place locally. Michael Carroll of Tullamore Lions Club spoke about extensive efforts undertaken by the club, in partnership with Offaly County Council and private landowners, to restore an area of bogland. While significant progress has been made at Clonbeale More Bog, he noted that the work is ongoing and that there is still much to be done. He expressed his thanks to Offaly County Council for their continued support and to the Grennan family. Attendees warmly wished the Lions Club well and welcomed the restoration of this important wetland space.

While there was strong appreciation for the restoration work carried out by the Tullamore Lions Club, the continued preservation and management of Clara Bog by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), and the support of the local community, the threat to Clonmacnoise resonated most deeply with those present. Speakers stressed that the future protection of Ireland’s sacred landscapes depends on informed public engagement, collective action, and a commitment to placing cultural and environmental heritage at the heart of decision-making.

Anna Orman noted that wind farms have become a significant source of renewable energy and have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. She remarked that, to ensure the sustainable use of this technology, it is imperative to fully assess its impacts—particularly in relation to location, proximity to historic and environmentally sensitive sites, and wider cultural, spiritual, ecological, and community considerations.

She concluded by praising the efforts and determination of the local community group, the Friends of Cornafulla, Clonmacnoise & the Shannon Callows, who are at the forefront of efforts to address this potential threat.

This event, like many World Wetlands Day celebrations, was supported by LAWPRO, the Brosna River Trust, and the Clara Heritage Society, who wish to thank LAWPRO for their ongoing support of the Midland wetlands.