It would be truly ironic if Galway was to lose its living boating heritage with the disappearance of the gleoiteog while at the same time celebrating a round the world sailing race!
This is the view of Independent Cllr Catherine Connolly. She said that if the Volvo Ocean Race is to leave a lasting legacy for Galway funding must be provided for restoration of the Claddagh gleoiteoga boats.
Cllr Connolly has welcomed the statement by the city manager Joe MacGrath at Monday’s city council meeting that some funding from the Galway City Council is available. Mr McGrath also said he is in contact with the Heritage Council and Failte Ireland in relation to matching funding.
The number of gleoiteoga remaining in the Claddagh has significantly diminished over recent years and at the last Blessing of the Bay in August 2008 only a small number of gleoiteoga sailed out to participate in the ceremony. The rest remain on dry dock awaiting essential and urgent repairs.
Cllr Connolly said the local Claddagh people recognise the importance of repairing the boats and have repeatedly highlighted the danger of losing the traditional crafts if no action is taken.
She said gleoiteoga owners have indicated their willingness to participate in a project to have their boats refurbished and made seaworthy in time for the Volvo Ocean Race. There is a further gleoiteog owned by the city council which may also sail out from the Claddagh for the race.
A further report was furnished by the local boat club Badoiri na Chladaigh to the city manager at his request, setting out the time frame for the restoration of the boats. Cllr Connolly added that “four well known and recognised expert boat builders in Conamara” have come on board and are “ready, willing, and able” to complete the project.
“The only remaining obstacle to the dream becoming a reality is the provision of funding,” she said. “The Claddagh is synonymous with traditional sailing/fishing boats not just in Ireland but the world over. It would be truly ironic if Galway was to lose its living heritage while at the same time celebrating a round the world sailing race!”
