This article is from page 10 of the 2006-04-18 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 10 JPG
CLARE County Council has given the go-ahead for ambitious plans to transform the old homestead of GAA founder father Michael Cusack into a visitor attraction.
Planning permission has been granted for a project spearheaded by the Michael Cusack Development Company to develop an interpretative centre-type facility in Carron.
It is hoped that the project, for which funding has been received from the GAA, will be completed in time for the centenary of Michael Cusack’s death, which occurred on December 6, 1906.
The Michael Cusack Development Company originally came together in December 2003 to determine the potential to develop a cultural heritage project, commemorating one of the architects of modern Ireland.
The company consists of a broad based group having strong commercial, tourism, educational and cultural backgrounds, representing the respective backgrounds of the Gaelic Athletic Association, Clare County Council, County Clare VEC, Michael Cusack’s GAA Club, Comhar Conradh na Bóirne and community leaders.
“Our key objectives are to commemorate and celebrate a dynamic force in Irish society, who brought the GAA into existence and ensure a project that is distinct, sustainable and viable,” a spokesperson for the Michael Cusack Development Company told The Clare People .
“At the heart of the Michael Cusack centenary project will lay a unique and stunning new visitor attraction that will celebrate the life and legacy of this extraordinary man, whose vision, passion and ability laid the foundation for modern Ireland,” the spokesperson added.
Phase one will see the renovation of the homestead, and ancillary works to include ground, road and wall repairs, landscaping, and the development of the Michael Cusack Park of Gaelic Sports.
Phase two will see the building of a new structure on-site, incorporating the functions of an exhibition centre, café, shop, community resource and research facilities. The inclusion of an information access point at the Cusack Schoolhouse will also be developed.
“From spring 2007, the Cusack Centre and Homestead will host an exhibition, research and archival facility, coaching development and a restoration of the historic Cusack homestead,” the Michael Cusack Development Company spokesperson revealed.
“Cusack’s legacy has left us the living gift of the Irish national games of hurling, football and handball for the enjoyment of all peoples.
“His memory will be held in perpetual honour here in his native home of Carron, where it will be cherished and displayed for generations to come,” the spokesperson added.