Cliff-hanger as car park fees 'missing'

IT'S been involved in planning controversies, rows over parking and busking and has been the site of cliff-edge stunts.

And now the Cliffs of Moher are mired in a fraud investigation.

It emerged last night that gardai are investigating alleged "financial irregularities" because money from car parking fees at the new visitors centre remains unaccounted for.

One person has already resigned since the gardai began investigating over a year ago, and it is understood a "substantial" sum of money is involved.

"The council can confirm that a file on the matter has been handed over to the gardai who are continuing to investigate the matter. The matter was uncovered during our 2005 audit," said Clare County Council‘s Director of Services, Ger Dollard yesterday.

It is believed a sum of up to €15,000 was offered to the council as repayment for the missing monies, but this would not cover the missing sums. The council is also unsure for how long the alleged fraud went on.

It is understood the irregularities were uncovered after it was found there were more vehicles parking at the facility than the council was being paid for. Gardai are continuing their investigation.

Pat Flynn
Irish Independent