The Heritage Council’s National Heritage Week Awards recently honored the most captivating projects and events organized during National Heritage Week, recognizing the dedication of communities and organizations in celebrating Ireland’s rich heritage. These awards celebrate not only the importance of preserving cultural history but also the creativity and community engagement that bring these stories to life.
Each year, the Heritage Council also awards a “County Award” to the best event or project within each Local Authority Area, based on the effectiveness of raising awareness about an aspect of heritage and its community involvement. This year, the Liscannor Heritage Group’s Placemaking Heritage Day was recognized with the prestigious County Winner title for Clare. In CRIS we have been delighted to be a part of the Placemaking Heritage Day programme and contribute to this achivement. The event focused on the transformative power of history in public spaces, highlighted how heritage can contribute to urban vitality, health, and well-being. A key feature of the day was a compelling lecture on John Philip Holland, the Irish inventor of the modern submarine. Dr. John Treacy, Interim Heritage Officer for Clare County, provided a captivating account of Holland’s life and groundbreaking achievements. Meanwhile, Dr. Edin Omerdic from CRIS explored the evolution of underwater technology, tracing the journey from Holland’s early submarines to the advanced underwater drones of today.
This innovative blend of local history and modern technology garnered high praise from the judges, who recognized the event’s ability to engage the community while showcasing how heritage can inspire vibrant, sustainable communities and strengthen connections to the past. The Placemaking Heritage Day was lauded for its creativity in connecting historical narratives with contemporary technological advancements, offering a fresh perspective on how the past can shape the future.
The recognition at the National Heritage Week Awards marks another milestone for Liscannor Heritage Group and CRIS team in the efforts to celebrate the cultural and historical richness of County Clare.
