Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has today announced funding of €100,000 to support the development of two outdoor adventure projects in Co Mayo.
Funding of €50,000 each has been awarded to Cong to Lisloughrey Pier Recreational Trail for the detailed design for a new 3.5km scenic trail connecting Cong and the 19th century dry canal structure and onwards to Kelly’s cave. The second project is for the scoping the creation of Ireland’s first underwater artificial reef in Killala Bay and environmental planning costs in Killala.
The investment under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) will be key to enhancing outdoor amenities such as walkways, cycleways, rivers, lakes and beaches.
The projects, when ultimately delivered, will also provide a major boost to local economies by attracting visitors and furthering our reputation as a destination for adventure tourism.
This funding will be invested in 50 outdoor recreation projects that are currently at the early stage of development.
These projects are to receive funding of up to €50,000 to bring them to a shovel-ready stage. Once at a shovel ready stage, they will be in a position to secure further funding through the other measures of the ORIS.
Funding for the delivery of projects on the ground under the other Measures of the scheme will be announced by Minister Humphreys early next year.
Fine Gael TD and Spokesperson on Tourism and Sport, Deputy Alan Dillon has welcomed a funding announcement by his party colleague, saying the funding in Cong will be a great addition to Lisloughrey.
“These are two fantastic projects which have been in the planning stages for some time. I want to commend Mayo County Council for submitting these applications and I was happy to work alongside my colleagues Cllr Michael Burke and Cllr Jarlath Munnelly in progressing the trail in Cong and the artificial reef in Killala, which is a first for the country,” Deputy Dillon said.
Deputy Michael Ring also welcomed the news.
“The benefits, both economically and socially of these investments in rural Ireland can be seen by the increased number of people enjoying our amenities in Mayo. I would encourage everyone to make the most of what our county has to offer,” Deputy Ring said.
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary, welcomed the funding for the project in Killala.
“Good news for Killala Bay Ship2Reef Project – €50,000 has been secured from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme to advance the proposed project.
“The initial funding will cover the scoping of the first ever artificial reef and environmental planning costs.
“The MV Shingle has already been secured from Revenue as #Ships2Reef group continue to move the project forward – I am delighted to assist them in a project of unbridled potential for Mayo North Tourism.”