Listen Back: Community council helps put Blacklion firmly on the map. Community stalwarts like Michael Fitzpatrick; play an instrumental role down through the years; to make Blacklion the thriving village that it is today.
Indeed, due to years of feeling "neglected" and "forgotten" compared to other areas in Co Cavan; the West Cavan Community Council was set up.
Moreover, the council, which later developed into the Killinagh Community Council for the people of Blacklion; achieved many things for the local area, having lobbied for the Shannon Pot and the Burren.
Speaking to Northern Sound, council member Michael Fitzpatrick says the people of Blacklion were "forgotten about" and the area was run down. However, thanks to local people, many of whom are dead and gone now, great strides made to put the village of Blacklion firmly on the map.
Furthermore, Michael says some of the proudest achievements include birthing the idea of the Cavan Way; a walkway from Dowra to Blacklion via the Shannon Pot and the Burren.
At the present time today there are major developments going on at both the Shannon Pot and the Burren which attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Michael says other achievements included resurrecting the Market House to its former glory, a building which now plays an integral part in community life for the people of Blacklion.
Jodie Curran has been speaking in detail with the Co Cavan man:
