Portrun Development Assoc held a very successful 2025 event, the National theme for this year was “Exploring our Foundations”.
Event was based around St Diarmuid (540AD) and his very strong connections to Portrun Harbour and the Islands off its shoreline.
The event began with a gentle stroll along a quiet laneway stopping at St Diarmuids Holy Well in the heart of Portrun. The group was led by Historian Elaine Conroy, participants learned about Saint Diarmuid – ‘teacher, poet and philosopher,’ known as ‘Dermot the Just’ or ‘he without envy’ who later established a Monastery on Inchcleraun (Quaker Island) – one of the main Islands off the Portrun shoreline.
Event followed the laneway with another stop at the local ancient church dating back to the 12th century and its associated graveyard which had been a local burial ground for over 800 years, though all internments now take place in the nearby Gailey Cemetery where close by stands the ruins of Gailey Castle dating back to the 15th Century.
Back at the shoreline Portrun Development partnered with Lough Ree Access for All Boat. The group boarded the boat and were treated to a trip on Lough Ree stopping at the shoreline of Inch Cleraun (Quaker Island) or sometimes also referred to as Island of the Seven Churches, one of which was visible from the stop point.
Here visitors were given a comprehensive history of the Island, both it’s historical significance and currently the agricultural plans and activities taking place there.
As the boat trip concluded its journey cruisers were alerted to Gailey Bay with a view of Gailey Castle, where it’s understood the concept of the “Fleadh Cheoil” first emerged!
Portrun Development Assoc would like to thank all who visited on the day, also thanks to Lough Ree Access for all, Roscommon Co Council Heritage Office, LAWPRO (Local Water Authorities Programme) and all the Portrun Development volunteers who had any input both before, during or after the event.
