The Cliffs of Moher have lost out in a long-running competition to be named as one of the world’s new ‘Seven Wonders.'
The failed bid will result in the loss of hundreds of millions of dollars in potential tourism revenue according to estimates compiled for the Irish government.
The Irish tourist agency Fáilte Ireland had predicted that visitors to the Cliffs would rise by up to 35 percent if it was recognized in the worldwide poll, conducted online by the Swiss based New7Wonders organization.
An independent audit forecast that Ireland would have benefited by up to €700 million in revenue over five years if the Cliffs were named as a natural wonder.
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Just last week, Irish football team boss and man ofthe moment Giovanni Trapattoni visited the Cliffs and described them as "marvelous."
Mayor of Clare and Councillor Pat Hayes expressed disappointment at the result of the online poll.
“At least more people than ever have heard of the Cliffs of Moher now,” said Hayes.
A Fianna Fail member of the Irish parliament has criticized the government for not doing enough to promote the Cliffs of Moher bid.
Spokesman on tourism and local Dail Deputy Timmy Dooley said: “The government failed to harness the potential of this great asset we have in Clare.
“The Government should have used our network of offices around the world to promote the campaign and if it had been properly co-ordinated and orchestrated at Government level, we would have had a far better chance.”
The 702 ft cliffs, already a major tourist attraction, were among 28 finalists in the global competition.
That figure was reduced initially to 14, with the Irish landmark failing to make that shortlist when first results were announced in Zurich.
The seven successful sites include the Amazon Rainforest, Table Mountain in South Africa and Indonesia’s Komodo Island.
Also named as provisional winners were Halong Bay (Vietnam), Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil), Jeju Island (South Korea), and Puerto Princesa Underground River (Philippines).
The Swiss organizers will have the voting checked independently and verified before the winners are confirmed at a ceremony early next year.
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Switch to the desktop site to post a comment.Towngate | Nov 16, 2011, 06:31 AM EST
Hey! Paddy-snap: You are overexposed here and your shutter in jammed! The cliffs have been there for ages and witnessed many things - like the wrecks of the Spanish Armada and the Famine! That did they do then to give hope and encourageent or money to despairing people ? Nothing! That's what! Whereas your truly world renowned magnificent White Cliffs of Dover stand as a lasting symbol that truth and decency and civilisation can be defended against the inhuman horrors of a Europe in turmoil. No comparison with a few rocky crags which represent only a money-grubbing tourist trap which allows the Clare County Manager a massive salary and to claim the highest Expenses for the post in the country! >>> You attack poor @Warlocks for citing his 'God'. Is it only 'blasphemy' if it relates to a 'Christian' god? Well, I've got news for you: Call Him whatever you like! He doesn't mind a bit!
GeorgeDillon | Nov 14, 2011, 09:55 AM EST
I'm happy to hear this. I despise what the Irish gombeens have done with their stupid interpretative center etc. at The Cliffs of Moher. Serves them right--they're parasites.
Irishphotograph | Nov 14, 2011, 09:29 AM EST
Warlocks! the White Cliffs of Dover are but a fraction of the awesomeness of the Cliffs of Moher, in every way. And if you are a believer in the Christian God. Then know that saying 'oh my God' is blasphemy. Have a blessed day friend.
Irishphotograph | Nov 14, 2011, 09:28 AM EST
Warlocks! the White Cliffs of Dover are but a fraction of the awesomeness of the Cliffs of Moher, in every way. And if you are believe in the Christian God. Then know that saying 'oh my God' is blasphemy. Have a blessed day friend.
warlocks | Nov 13, 2011, 09:03 PM EST
OH My God who in their right mind would vote the Cliffs of Moher a wonder of this world ? Been there seen them . nothing but an Old Rocky drab looking cliff eroded by Time.nothing Beautiful there. White Cliffs of Dover are much better . also the Grand Canyon Tops them All !
Irishphotograph | Nov 13, 2011, 07:32 PM EST
Cliffs of Moher never before seen! utube.com/watch?v=riC5X0u17V8
teddybear | Nov 13, 2011, 06:18 PM EST
We visited the Cliffs 2 times while visiting Ireland and will go again when we go back they are beautiful.
Searlit | Nov 13, 2011, 12:15 PM EST
The Irish Cliffs of Moher are so splendid and magnetic that visitors are drawn back to them year after year. The other places on the list would probably draw a few visitors, once.
cillowen | Nov 13, 2011, 12:09 PM EST
The Irish can't wait to being off to visit such exciting choices - the Amazon Rainforest, Table Mountain in South Africa, Indonesia’s Komodo Island, Halong Bay (Vietnam), Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil), Jeju Island (South Korea), and Puerto Princesa Underground River (Philippines). Won't catch me at any of these, can't stand the chatter in such exotic sweltering places.