A 'Heritage & Fastnet Centre' is scheduled to open in Summer 2024 on Cape Clear Island, located on the West Cork coast.
The development of the centre was celebrated by raising flags at the proposed site during a 'Flags Day' event. Micheal ó Ceadagáin, one of the island's oldest residents and one of the Iron Men of Cape Clear, raised the Fastnet Rock and Lighthouse flag, signifying Cape Clear's close relationship with the Fastnet.
Throughout the 1960s, Micheál and his fellow Iron Men delivered bags of coal up the 99 steps to the Fastnet Lighthouse. He has dedicated his life to working for the island community, serving as Chairperson and Manager of Cape Clear Coop, among other roles.
The Cape Clear Flag was also raised near St Ciarán Gallán and the Holy Well in North Harbor, commemorating the island's 5,000-year history represented by the Cape Clear Stone. Éamon Lankford spent 40 years collecting artefacts from the island and conducting extensive research on its history and folklore, producing a collection of publications about Oileán Cléire.
Islanders are hopeful for the return of the Cape Clear Stone, which is currently housed in a museum in Cork City.
Flags were also raised for the new children's playground on Cape Clear, the Fastnet Rock & Lighthouse, and the O'Drisocoll Flag, in honour of the O'Driscoll heritage, with the O'Driscoll Worldwide Archives set to be kept at the new Centre. The island community aims to develop a Heritage Centre to gain national and international recognition.
The first phase includes maritime heritage, local historic shipwrecks, and a tower showcasing the history of the harbour, Church, and Castle, among other features.
Many individuals and groups are contributing to the island's progress.