Councillor's frustration as Cliffs of Moher Strategy still not brought forward for approval

The Cliffs of Moher 2040 Strategy has still not been brought before Elected Officials for approval, a recent Clare County Council meeting has revealed. 

In a Notice of Motion submitted by Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy, he called on the Council to clarify the status of the strategy; in which it was confirmed that it is at final draft stage. 

Acknowledging it has not yet been approved was Interim Chief Executive Dr Carmel Kirby, who said in a reply, "It should be noted that the Cliffs of Moher Strategy is not a statutory plan requiring adoption by the Council." 

The Draft Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040 provides a long-term vision for the sustainable development of the world-class visitor attraction over the next 20 years, while also extending economic benefits across the wider region.

READ MORE: Gardaí appeal for information following theft of number plates from vehicle in Ennis town

The strategy is being prepared on behalf of Clare County Council by a multi-disciplinary team of international consultants, with guidance provided by a group of representatives from the Local Authority, Cliffs of Moher Experience, Fáilte Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, private industries and the wider community.

The 2040 Strategy has five pillars, is supported by an Environmental Impact Assessment and was subject to significant consultation during the process of drafting the strategy and the assessment. 

Continuing, Dr Kirby said, "The overarching objectives of the strategy are sound and broadly agreed. However, in response to feedback following a workshop with the West Clare Municipal District councillors, it was decided to undertake a review of the final draft of the Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040."

It is Clare County Council's intention to bring the reviewed strategy before the Council for noting.