Councillors demanding urgent Cairn T conservation works

Fears that the iconic Cairn T at Loughcrew could collapse before conservation works are carried out have been mounting in the Oldcastle area.

As concerns grow, Kells Municipal Council has urged the office of Public Works to prioritise works on the cairn.

A letter from the local authority calls for a complete technical examinations and conservation work on the cairn with a view to opening is up to the public.

“Cairn T has been closed to the public since 2018, with no immediate action taken to address its deteriorating condition,” says Cllr Peter Caffrey who raised concern about the monument at the April Meeting of Kells Municipal Council.

“The site is currently being supported with an a crow prop, raising fears that it may collapse before necessary conservation actions are initiated.

“Urgent action is needed to develop and implement a comprehensive conservation management plan to protect this historic site for future generations.”

Cllr Caffrey said that Loughcrew is a vital part of our national identity and cultural heritage.

“It is a really important historical monument, visited by hundreds of people each day and nothing has been done since 2018. Concerns about the site's condition were raised to the Office of Public Works (OPW) over six years ago, leading to frustration over the lack of progress.

“Continuous erosion over the past five years has exacerbated the situation, making immediate action even more critical,” he said.

Deputy Johnny Guirke has raised the issue in the Dail on several occasions, emphasising the need for action and accountability regarding the conservation of Cairn T.

“The conservation of Loughcrew Cairn T is essential not only for heritage but also for promoting tourism in areas like Oldcastle,” he said.

“There is a pressing need for a swift and effective government response to ensure the protection of the cairn.

“Statements from the OPW in the past highlight a contradiction; despite returning €19.7 million to government funds in 2022, they claimed a lack of resources to restore access to Cairn T.

“The OPW managed a total expenditure of €184 million in 2021, with a surplus of €40.4 million at year-end, raising questions about funding priorities for vital heritage sites.

“We need immediate and decisive action to prevent further deterioration of Loughcrew Cairn T and safeguard our heritage.

“Delaying further will risk the collapse of this precious monument, making it even more challenging to restore and reopen to the public.

“This is one of Oldcastle's most visited sites,” he said.

The OPW has been approached for comment.