Governance
Introduction
The Cliffs of Moher Experience is committed to maintaining the highest standards of governance, transparency, and accountability in managing a world-renowned natural attraction. The Cliffs of Moher Experience strives to balance conservation efforts with sustainable tourism, ensuring that the Cliffs remain an iconic landmark for generations to come.
Organisational Structure
The Cliffs of Moher Experience operates under the stewardship of Clare County Council and is part of the umbrella brand portfolio of attractions, The Clare Collection. Governance follows a structured framework, including an advisory board that oversees strategic decision-making for the Cliffs of Moher Experience. The host employer for staff employed at this site is Clare Tourism Development DAC, a subsidiary of Clare County Council. The Cliffs of Moher Experience is one of the main Geosites in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark and adheres to the six principles outlined in the Code of Practice from the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission: Our mission is the deliver world class experiences in a safe, accessible, authentic, and welcoming environment. Champion best practice in managing for sustainability and conservation for the Cliffs of Moher, our environment, our culture and heritage, while protecting the status of The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Collaborate with stakeholders to contribute to the development of a prosperous, vibrant local community and economy for future generations.
Vision: Our vision is to bring the magic of the Cliffs of Moher Experience alive, inspiring our people while caring and safeguarding the future of our natural environment.
Policies & Compliance
- The Cliffs of Moher Experience adheres to local government national and EU regulations, ensuring responsible environmental stewardship and ethical tourism practices including best practice following Governance Code of Practice for State bodies (2016) and Local Government Code of Governance (2024). The Cliffs of Moher Experience operates under a Service Level Agreement with Clare County Council.
Our governance framework includes:
- Environmental Policy: Focused on conservation and biodiversity protection of the Special Protection Area for Birds 1979 and commitments to carbon reduction.
- Sustainability Commitment: Measures to reduce waste, energy consumption, and encourage eco-friendly visitor behaviour.
- Health & Safety Standards: Compliance with best practices to ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors and staff.
- Financial Transparency: Regular audits and reports on financial management and investment in site maintenance.
Board & Leadership
The governance structure includes reporting to Clare County Council and a dedicated board with representatives from both the public and private sectors. These representatives bring expertise in environmental management, tourism, finance, and heritage preservation.
There are two companies involved:
- Cliffs of Moher Centre DAC, which provides strategic advice and direction for the long-term plans of the Cliffs of Moher Experience, including the 2040 Masterplan.
- Clare Tourism Development DAC, which serves as the host employer. It was established to manage the Cliffs of Moher Experience and other tourism sites under The Clare Collection umbrella brand on behalf of Clare County Council.
Key Responsibilities of the boards:
- Oversee strategic direction and long-term planning.
- Ensure financial integrity and sustainable revenue generation.
- Uphold best practices in environmental conservation.
- Engage with local communities and stakeholders.
- Monitor compliance with national and international governance standards.
- Employment of staff to manage and develop tourism site.
Community Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration
We actively engage with local communities, conservation groups, and industry stakeholders to ensure that decision-making reflects diverse perspectives, supports regional economic growth and aligns to sustainable tourism.
How to engage:
- Public Consultations & Feedback Mechanisms
- Partnerships with Local Businesses & Conservation Groups
- Educational & Volunteer Programs
Transparency & Reporting
To maintain accountability, the Cliffs of Moher Experience publishes annual activity reports detailing general activity performance, environmental, social and econimic activity. Please see here for more information. 2024 Activity Report.
Contact Us
For governance-related inquiries, please contact:
Cliffs of Moher Experience
Address: Cliffs of Moher Experience, Liscannor, Co. Clare, Ireland, V95 KN9T.
Email: info@cliffsofmoher.ie
Phone: +353 65 708 6141