Senator Aisling Dolan - Strong Voice, New Vision.
Senator Aisling Dolan welcomed Minister Heather Humphreys announcement of funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme
A significant investment in outdoor amenities in County Roscommon. I’d like to thank my colleague Minister Heather Humphreys for funding of €700,000 for two major outdoor projects under the Department of Rural & Community Development. This follows on from five projects funded earlier this year under Measure 1. Minister Heather Humphreys visited Roscommon only a few weeks ago and had a chance to see how over €60 million from her Department has been invested in the county over the past 5 years and I’m delighted to work with community groups and volunteers on these projects.
The Donamon Outdoor Recreation project has won funding of half a million under Measure 3 for large scale projects. Tracks and trails in Bracklin forest at Donamon will be improved and all adding to the Suck Valley Way Trail. Well done to the Rural Recreation team at Roscommon County Council together with the Suck Valley Way committee on advocating and improving this scenic walk and hike which is part of the national Beara Breifne Trail. Thank Gareth Scahill for always highlighting tracks and trails as well. This summer could be the perfect time for families to explore the Suck Valley Way in easy sections and discover adventure right on our doorstep.
Congratulations to Boyle Town Team on the Lawn project to restore the walkway along the Boyle river. This investment of close to €200,000 will make a real impact for everyone in the town. It will add to the Latin quarter buzz in the area with lively cafes and restaurants and the recently renovated library space. My colleague Dympna Daly-Finn is a fantastic advocate for the Boyle area. And I know so many travel near and far for the Boyle Arts Festival which is starting off from 18th July and lots of great acts & performers planned.
The Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure programme targets funding for communities who see the potential in their stunning local towns and villages. Here in Roscommon we have the Shannon and River Suck waterways, Beara Briefne Trails, forest cycleways, lakes and so much more to explore. Being active and healthy at all ages is great for the mind and the body. Even getting out for a short walk in nature can lift the spirits and give us new perspectives. An adventurous hike or trail for half an hour or half a day can be a fantastic way to catch up with friends and family as well as discovering something new close to home.
The Outdoor Recreational Fund is part of government’s Our Rural Future strategy and Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors strategy.
These funds are also to promote visitors to our area and tourism in our towns and to encourage people to spend locally in our shops, cafes, restaurants and gastropubs as well as staying in Co. Roscommon. To remind hospitality businesses of the EU Just Transition funds under Fáilte Ireland that are also available to people, farms or businesses in the area to increase bed-nights through funding for log cabins, shepherds Huts, glamping and pods as well as accessibility which could be accessible parking, ramps, accessible toilets. The deadline for Expression of Interest applications here is the end of June and do contact Just Transition Activation Officer in Roscommon Co Council.
