Enjoy the sculpture – but abide by barbecue ban
Tourism and amenities at local lakes discussed
At the July meeting of the Municipal District of Mullingar Kinnegad, Cllr Julie McCourt raised a number of proposals aimed at improving the visitor experience at local lakes, including enhanced signage, storytelling, and amenities.
Her suggestions focused on better showcasing the cultural and historical significance of Lough Owel and other nearby sites, as well as exploring practical measures to improve facilities for recreational users.
Cllr McCourt also raised the issue of interpretation signage at Lough Owel, specifically at the diving boards, where the sculpture of swans referencing the Children of Lir myth is located. She suggested that a plinth or information board be installed to explain the sculpture to tourists, with a view to linking it to Lough Derravaragh, the legendary setting of the tale.
The council responded that it would engage with its arts and tourism officers to determine a suitable mechanism for providing information at the site, as well as explore funding options.
Cllr McCourt also said more could be done at Lough Owel. She noted that Church Island, a site of historical significance, could also be included in future interpretive materials, and mentioned the local legend of ‘the lady in the lake’ at Lilliput as another potential point of interest. She said she would follow up with council officers directly on the matter.
Barbecue ban
Cllr McCourt also proposed the installation of designated barbecue areas at lake shores throughout the district. She clarified that she was not referring to enclosed or open fire pits, but rather safe, designated spots where people could place disposable barbecues to prevent damage to grass or littering.
Cllr McCourt cited as an example the lake Lilliput, where, she said, benches include raised areas specifically designed for disposable barbecues. "I know we’re not encouraging anyone to be lighting fires out at the lakeshores," she said, "but it would be a safer option than having them left on the grass and flung around everywhere."
However, director of services Deirdre Reilly reiterated that the Lakeshore Bye-Laws adopted in 2012 explicitly prohibit the lighting of fires, including all forms of barbecues, at lake shores. While acknowledging that some people still use them informally, she confirmed that the current by-laws do not permit their installation or use in any form.