Calls to preserve ‘Ryan’s Daughter’ schoolhouse in Dunquin

Council officials have rejected a call to place a “derelict site” notice on the only remaining building associated with the 1970-released epic romantic drama Ryan’s Daughter.

The building, the stone schoolhouse, rests on the edge of the Atlantic at Dunquin in west Kerry.

Acquired in the 1980s by Ryanair founder, the late Tony Ryan, extensive works were carried out to the property in recent times. It is owned by the Ryan family.

The roof timbers and slates were removed and stacked and the area fenced off and made safe, Kerry County Council has advised elected members in a report.

However, the council asserted any proposed works, other than tidying up the 40-year-old building which was never an actual schoolhouse, will require planning due to “the unusual” nature of the building as a film set.

The stone building in the film had been constructed to represent a 1916 schoolhouse with separate entrances for boys and girls. It had been the location for some of the most memorable scenes between stars Sarah Miles and Robert Mitchum in the David Lean-directed film.

It was built on private land on a dramatic headland at Cill Gobnait, Dún Chaoin, overlooking the Blasket Islands and has one of the finest views in the area. It is the only structure left of the film which was the catalyst for tourism in Dingle.

The outside of the school house where some of the more memorable scenes of ‘Ryan’s Daughter’ were filmed. Picture: Domnick Walsh

An offer by the British director Mr Lean to leave, untouched, the street built on commonage was not taken up by locals and the street was demolished.

Local councillor Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald (FG) said tourists are continually interested in structures and locations associated with Ryan’s Daughter and said the building should be preserved. He also wanted it signposted as part of the Wild Atlantic Way.

“It is the only building left now,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

He tabled a council motion asking for the owners to be served with a derelict site notice to ensure something was done to preserve the building after the roof fell in.

However, in a report to Mr Fitzgerald, council officials turned down the the councillor’s call, saying repairs are being carried out by the owners.

“Earlier this year this property was inspected with a view to putting it on the Derelict Site’s register following considerable damage done to the roof during storms,” an official said.

However, prior to any notices being sent, “extensive work” was carried out to the property, the report said.

The council said while the building had “undoubted recent historical interest” it was not on the record of protected structures.

The council also pointed out “the unusual” status of the building in terms of planning. “Also, this property is unusual as it only ever had a temporary use [for the duration of the filming].

“It was never used as a schoolhouse or any other type of house and it would require planning permission to carry out the works that would be required to restore it to some practical use,” he council noted.