Civic reception for Lemanaghan Bog Heritage Group following national recognition

There was a strong sense of pride in the chambers of Offaly County Council this week as the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group were honoured at a civic reception for its achievement in the Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh Award, a prestigious category in the National Heritage Awards.

The award recognises initiatives that celebrate and safeguard intangible cultural heritage — the customs, traditions, skills, and practices passed down through generations. Lemanaghan’s success stands as a testament to the powerful grassroots work being done to preserve a place rich in spiritual, historical, and cultural significance.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Aoife Phelan delivered a deeply heartfelt address: “It’s a real honour to be here this evening on behalf of the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage & Conservation Group. We are deeply grateful for this recognition, and we accept it with pride — not for ourselves alone, but on behalf of the whole community who care so deeply about our heritage.

She spoke movingly about the quiet power of Lemanaghan — its links to St Manchán and St Mella, its sacred wells and monastic past, and its enduring connection with Clonmacnoise.

“What makes Lemanaghan truly remarkable is the community who have taken up the role of guardians — not just of ancient stones, but of a living heritage," said Ms Phelan.

Lemanaghan Bog Heritage and Conservation Group said this week that sense of guardianship is not merely symbolic.

"Over the years, the local community has shown remarkable commitment to the protection of the Lemanaghan landscape, including its resistance to proposed large-scale industrial windfarm development on this renowned archaeological and spiritual site," the group said in a statement. "The determination of the community to protect the integrity of the area is a powerful expression of cultural stewardship in action."

The group also paid tribute to the vital support of Amanda Pedlow and the Offaly Heritage Office, as well as to the many archaeologists, historians, and academics whose shared interest has enriched the understanding and appreciation of Lemanaghan.

Named after the legendary broadcaster who championed Ireland’s cultural traditions, the Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh Award acknowledges the strength of communities like Lemanaghan in keeping heritage alive — not just through memory, but through action.

“We believe St Manchán and St Mella are guiding us still, and we’re proud to follow their path,” Ms Phelan concluded.