The state agency that runs tourism and heritage sites Bunratty Castle and King John's Castle, Shannon Group, is seeking €6.4 million in additional government funding to keep the two attractions open.
As reported by The Irish Independent, Shannon Group CEO Mary Considine said that the group has made a submission to the government requesting additional funding for the two castles, and is currently engaging in daily discussions with the government about the possibility of securing the requested additional funding so that the two castles can be kept open until June of next year.
Drop In Revenue
Both castles have experienced a drop in revenue this year due to a lack of international tourists as a result of the continuing COVID-19 crisis, and Considine stated that without the requested additional funding they will have to close during the off-season, starting in September.
The Irish Independent quotes the Shannon Group CEO as saying, "We urgently await the outcome of that request and, in the meantime, are exploring all options around the viability of these facilities beyond 2020."
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