Forbairt Fhánada has signed a new 20-year lease agreement with the Commissioners of Irish Lights (Irish Lights) for the continued operation and development of Fanad Lighthouse.
The official signing ceremony took place at the lighthouse itself, celebrating the renewal of a successful partnership that has helped position Fanad as one of the most iconic Great Lighthouses of Ireland destinations.
Featured photo above: Standing: Eimear Ní Mhathúna (Forbairt Fhánada), Micheál Mac Giolla Easbuig (Údarás na Gaeltachta), Joan Crawford (Fáilte Ireland), Aodh Mac Suíbhne (Údarás na Gaeltachta). Seated: Ray Moore (Forbairt Fhánada), Clodagh Hanratty (Commissioners of Irish Lights)
Ray Moore, Chairperson of Forbairt Fhánada, expressed deep gratitude to all stakeholders who played a role in securing this agreement, particularly the Commissioners of Irish Lights, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Fáilte Ireland, and Donegal County Council.
“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to continue managing public access to Fanad Lighthouse for both guided tours and overnight accommodation,” Mr. Moore said.
“This renewed lease allows us to further develop and improve facilities, while supporting our wider mission to enhance the social, cultural, educational, and economic life of the Fanad community.”
Clodagh Hanratty, Director of Coastal Operations at the Commissioners of Irish Lights, highlighted the broader significance of the partnership: “The renewal of the lease with Forbairt Fhánada marks a significant milestone in our shared journey to preserve and celebrate Ireland’s rich maritime heritage. Fanad Lighthouse stands as a beacon not only for maritime safety but also a shining example of how heritage can power tourism, sustain communities, and connect people across the island of Ireland.”
Fanad Lighthouse, under the stewardship of Forbairt Fhánada, has consistently drawn strong visitor numbers, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors annually. In 2024 alone, the wider Great Lighthouses of Ireland network recorded over international and domestic 355,000 visitors.
Fanad stands out not only for its breathtaking location and high-quality visitor experience but also for the tangible benefits it brings to the local economy, supporting local jobs, businesses, and a vibrant sense of place.
