Tourism boss offers to mediate in Lissadell row

THE CHAIRMAN of Fáilte Ireland North West has offered to mediate in the row which has led to the closure of Lissadell House.

Former Fianna Fáil senator Pascal Mooney said he was sorry that a row over rights of way could result in the closure of this premier tourist attraction, "at a time when the world and his wife knows the challenges we are facing".

As people in the region reacted with shock to the surprise announcement, Mr Mooney urged both sides in the row to sit down face to face and try and resolve their differences. If necessary he was willing, in a personal capacity, to act as mediator.

Announcing their intention to close the house to the public from Monday, owners Constance Cassidy and Edward Walsh said this week the action had been forced on them by Sligo County Council.

While officials have made no public comment on the controversy to date, standing orders are to be suspended at the monthly meeting of the council on Monday when it is expected that county manager Hubert Kearns will make a statement.

Mr Mooney said a Yeats trail is due to be launched at Drumcliffe and Lissadell later this month and that while the historic house is included in all the marketing material, visitors will now be told "sorry you cannot get into Lissadell".