Orla travels to the beautiful Burren in County Clare, to meet construction Project Manager, Paul Hussey, who has lovingly restored a traditional 18th century fisherman's thatched cottage.
Paul discusses the importance of preserving and conserving our thatched cottages and some of the many challenges faced by owners today.
He also outlines 3 core recommendations to improve the prospects of the survival of thatched cottages into the future.
1. Census of all thatched cottages and commercial thatched premises in Ireland today. This classification is no longer on the census form so there is no official number on record to allow for proper planning and supports.
2. Formation of one representative body with Government funding, to unify the voice of thatched cottage owners.
3. That Government underwrites Insurance providers who currently do not offer comprehensive home and contents insurance to new properties or restored properties, particularly against the risk of fire.
Paul wishes to thank and acknowledge the inputs and assistance of Master Thatcher David Gallery who took over the thatching of Oran Uisce when Paul went to work in Dubai and also Master Thatcher Peter Shane Childs for his invaluable advise on this project.
