Under 18s to go free into heritage sites in August, 'Boxer' announces

Athlone Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran has today (July 21) announced that admission to OPW heritage sites across the country will be free for all visitors under 18 throughout August.

The initiative, he said, 'allows young people to explore and engage with their heritage for the month of August'.

Included in Heritage Ireland's list of heritage sites is Athlone Castle Visitor Centre (currently closed to allow for redevelopments), Clonmacnoise Monastic Site, at Shannonbridge, Offaly, and Fore Abbey, at Castlepollard.

There is also two heritage sites in Roscommon, at Boyle Abbey and Rathcroghan Visitor Centre (Tulsk), as well as Corlea Iron Age Roadway and Visitor Centre, in Keenagh, Longford.

The initiative, said 'Boxer', Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, 'aims to encourage young people and families to discover Ireland’s rich cultural and historical heritage, while helping to make these experiences more accessible by removing financial barriers'.

The initiative will run from August 1 to 31.

Speaking about the initiative, Minister Moran said: “I am delighted that all under 18s will once again enjoy free entry to OPW heritage sites this August. Whether it’s exploring ancient monuments, visiting historic houses, taking part in interactive tours or discovering Ireland’s cultural heritage first-hand, this initiative offers young people a fun and memorable way to connect with history, nature and culture over the summer holidays.”

Tickets may be booked online in advance for a number of OPW heritage sites. All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information on the programme of events for free admission for U18s, and all terms and conditions of the pilot project, visit www.heritageireland.ie

* Free admission for U18s to all fee-paying sites with the exception of Kilmainham Gaol and Brú na Boinne.