The Burren Connect Project has rolled out nine ‘information points’ using broadband technology across the unique region.
Central to the information points is a 20-inch PC with internet access to the Burrenbeo website, www.burrenbeo.com, and other resources for information about the area.
Each information point also displays a detailed map of the Burren, guides on the archaeology, flora and fauna of the landscape, a noticeboard area for local events and a revised version of the Burren Code, which outlines how visitors should treat the area.
“The Burren Information Points are part of the Information Provision element of the Burren Connect Project’s strategy to increase awareness and appreciation of the landscape and culture in and around the Burren,” said Eimer McCarthy, Burren Connect Project.
“As part of this strategy, the Burrenbeo Eco Beo schools programme has been revived and delivered to nine national schools in north Clare and south Galway this year. An information CD-Rom for businesses and the wider Burren community has also been developed in collaboration with Burrenbeo and will be distributed during the summer.”
The geographical spread and location of the information points were determined by a number of criteria, especially the availability of high-speed internet access.
“Every effort will be made to maintain the year-round opening of the information points so as to reduce seasonal dependency and to promote the sustainable development of services within the region,” said McCarthy.
The nine information points are located at: The Burren Centre in Kilfenora, The Burren Perfumery in Carron, The Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna, The Ballyvaughan Visitor Centre, The Carron-based Michael Cusack Centre, Café Beo in Kinvara, Doolin Cave Visitor Information & Ticket Centre, The Caherconnell Stone Fort Visitor Centre and The Genealogical Centre in Corofin.
The Burren Connect Project is funded by the Fáilte Ireland Development fund, Clare County Council, Shannon Development, National Parks and Wildlife Service, National Monuments Service and Burrenbeo Not for Profit Organisation.
By Niall Byrne