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A delegation of senior Orange officials has visited the Boyne
battlesite to be briefed on developments there.
The Irish government purchased the 500-acre Oldbridge estate,
which includes much of the sites associated with the 1690
battle, including the battlefield itself.
A delegation led by the Grand Master, Brother Robert Saulters,
including county representatives from Leitrim, Donegal and
Monaghan, were shown around the impressive estate by officials.
They were shown Oldbridge House, the walled gardens outside
the property, woodland walks, and the battlesite itself and
took part in a detailed discussion on the potential and development
of the site.
Following the visit, the Orange Order has called on the Irish
Government to find the funds to fully develop the Boyne battlefield
site as a tourist amenity.
The Order said in a statement that the site on the banks
of the Boyne offered a unique opportunity to allow everyone
to learn more about the famous battle.
Grand Master of the Order, Brother Robert Saulters, said
that much work had been done at the 500 acre site.
"The enthusiasm of staff involved in the Oldbridge project
was clear, and we were impressed at the work already undertaken
at the site, particularly Oldbridge House," said the
Grand Master.
"However, our concerns are still that movement is slow
and funding appears to be limited. It is estimated that over
30 million Euros will be required to make this site the tourist
attraction which it fully deserves to be, and we would urge
the Irish Government to find the funding over a phased period,"
he added.
The Grand Master said that the site offered exciting prospects.
"There is not only Oldbridge House, built in the 1740s,
but also the various battlefield walks around the 500 acre
site, an extensive walled garden, and a section of canal through
the estate. All of this would make a wonderful tourist attraction
and we have no doubt that many visitors from the Protestant
tradition would be among those who would wish to see the site
each year."
"Current estimates are that one-quarter of the visitors
who call at the site are from Northern Ireland and we believe
this can be greatly increased."
"But in return the Irish Government needs to work on
the development of the site, on roads issues, and on other
aspects of ensuring that the site is not only an attraction
from the historical point of view, but that all those who
fought and died there are suitably remembered," the Grand
Master said.
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