Emma Melay, 26, from Bunclody, Co Wexford, and Darren McFadden, 34, from Celbridge, Co Kildare have been appointed as this year’s caretakers for the renowned Great Blasket Island. The couple initially crossed paths while working together in the same secondary school. Opting to take a break from their teaching careers amid mounting rent pressures, they have spent the last year touring Ireland in a camper van, living a frugal lifestyle.
The task of caretaker for the island has garnered interest from hundreds of thousands around the globe over the last five years. Emma, a Home Economics educator, and Darren, a Spanish and Business studies tutor, were intrigued by the opportunity to explore every aspect of Ireland. This new venture, however, will mean living without basic conveniences such as electricity and running water, starting from April 1st for half a year.
Emma shared her excitement upon learning about their selection, stating it was indeed an emotional ride from the moment they discovered they had secured the coveted roles. Darren expressed how the entire experience, from working in Tigh Ruairi on Inis Oírr on the Aran Islands to travelling across Ireland in their camper van, has been marvellous.
Their anticipation is not dusked by stepping back in time without the luxuries of modern life. They eagerly await the peace and tranquillity that comes with being close to nature, listening to the rain patter against the window, and experiencing the romance of living by candlelight. Darren added that they are excited to welcome visitors both local and international, despite the island having no permanent inhabitants since the 1950s due to the inability of emergency services to access it during storms.
Alice Hayes and her partner, Billy O’Connor, operate the lodgings available on the island. This duo have three cottages in their ownership that are let out to vacationers, as well as running a coffee shop present on the island.
“Emma and Darren struck us as quite pleasant and grounded, eager to engage with the responsibilities of being stewards. Our initial conversation with them took place whilst they were residing in a rustic house in Donegal, belonging to Darren’s grandmother. Their lifestyle consisted of limited wifi and simplistic facilities, in spite of that they appeared truly satisfied. Thus, Billy and I assumed it would make for a promising sign for island living,” Alice shared.