“Cool Heads And Clear Thinking Now Required” Says TD Cian O’Callaghan TD
Following his address to Dail Eireann where he questioned the withdrawal of the license held by local man Shane O’Doherty, to provide tour guide access for Shane’s Howth Hikes, Social Democrat TD for the area, Cian O’Callaghan has called on Michael McElligott of Tetrarch to reinstate the licence and help get relations with the residents of Howth back on an even keel.
Readers will recall an article from April 18 published on JustLocal, where the Tetrarch decision was called into question and seeing the injustice in the withdrawal of the licence and fearful that such a move by Tetrarch may set a precedent, Cian O’Callaghan was quick to go to bat on the issue.
He cited that the decision was totally at odds with existing arrangements, the good relationship that existed when the property was under the ownership of Gaisford St Lawrence, as well as the tradition of the demesne, since the time of Grainne Mhaol, when “an-open-gate” policy was instituted.
“This decision flies in the face of local interests” according to O’Callaghan “and at a time when Tetrarch and locals want to ensure that the next chapter in the life of Deer Park is set on a good footing, this decision represents a serious step back.”
Not to be outdone, local Fianna Fail representative for the area Cathal Haughey has made representations to Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan and whose reply may have sent a shot across the Tetrarch bows.
In it and in reference to Aideen’s Grave, sited on the demesne, the Minister Noonan confirmed that Aideen’s Grace: “is a recorded monument, SMR code DU015-032 — in the Howth Demesne townland” before going on to point out that……..“any works at or in proximity to the monument are subject to the requirements of section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994.”
This publication now understands that any future planning proposals by Tetrarch are now going to require reference to the monument, Aideen’s Grave, the megalithic tomb dating back to 1500BC and whose heritage and history has been enjoyed by walkers and residents alike.
And while maybe not a case of Aideen herself speaking from the grave, Aideen’s remains and remembrance may offer salutary advice, ”cool heads and clear thinking are now required”, according to Cian O’Callaghan. “It is very much in all our interests that there are good relations between the owners of the Howth Castle lands, local businesses and the wider local community. Respecting the long standing access to the grounds of Howth Castle and Aideen’s Grave and re-instating Shane’s guided walks would be a great way to re-establish these good relations”
It’s over to you Tetrarch.
Will Keep You Posted @ Just Local
