Alicia Clements says they've been fighting for world recognition for his telescope since the 1980s.
The family of the Third Earl of Rosse are delighted Birr telescope has moved a step closer to being recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Alicia Clements, who is his Great Great Great Grand Daughter and Manager of the Birr Estate says they've been hoping and fighting for world recognition for his telescope since the 1980s.
It along with the Dunsink Observatory House, in Dublin and the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory are being acknowledged for their role in astronomical discoveries.
Birr Castle Demesne began as a private observatory of the 3rd Earl of Rosse. It is most famous for the Great Leviathan of Parsonstown, built in 1845, then the largest telescope in the world.
Lady Clements says the family are thrilled the historical importance of the telescope is being celebrated:
Speaking on the announcement, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless said: “I am delighted to congratulate Armagh, Birr and Dunsink Observatories on being added to Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Ireland has a long history of advancing scientific knowledge and the addition of these observatories to the list is a recognition of that work and expertise. This recognition also serves as a powerful inspiration for future generations, encouraging more minds to explore the world of science, sparking curiosity and driving the pursuit of new knowledge even further."
Westmeath Residential Re-Development Gets Green Light
Gardai Issue Fresh Appeal For Offaly Arson Attack
Westmeath County Council Toasts Road Safety Competition Winners
Midlands Animal Welfare Charities In Line For €175k
No White Christmas For The Midlands This Year
ESB Requires Massive Step Change To Meet Connection Obligations
Concerns Raised Over National Lottery’s Handling Of Gambling Risks
Over €73k Awarded To Midlands Schools For Sustainability Projects
Appeal Lodged Over Slieve Blooms Quarry Expansion
Westmeath Community Group Spreads Christmas Cheer To Families In Need
Offaly Bike Shop Owner Calls For Tougher Penalties For Phone Use While Driving
Department Of Education Faces Almost 2,000 Teacher Vacancies
Midlands MEP Slams EU Commission President Over Mercosur Trade Deal Push
Revenue Seize Over €455k In Contraband In The Midlands
Westmeath Global Tech Company Set To Move Next Year
Offaly TD Makes Call For Retail Crime Reporting Systems
Westmeath Private Medical Campus Credits Public Health Cases For Success
Over 300 Irish Soldiers Spending Christmas In Lebanon
Midlands Children’s Services Project Celebrates HSE Excellence Award Wins
Midlands Towns And Villages To Receive €2.4m In Regeneration Funding