The economic opportunities that greenways bring to local communities was the subject of a Fáilte Ireland training and information workshop that was held this week for local councils and public bodies.
According to Fáilte Ireland, "Greenways are one of the biggest success stories of Irish tourism that have brought transformative benefits to local communities."
Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport brought staff from 21 local authorities together in Waterford to inform and educate them on how to maximise the tourism potential and economic impact of greenways in their regions.
The councils that sent representatives to the workshop have applied for funding through the government's €53 million Greenways Development Strategy, which falls under Project Ireland 2040.
"Ability To Drive Tourism And Revenue Growth"
Minister for transport, tourism and sport Shane Ross stated, "As part of Project Ireland 2040, the government has made major investment in greenways in recognition of their ability to drive tourism and revenue growth into local communities across the country. We are delighted to see such a significant take up in our funding call through the government's Greenway Strategy. I'm pleased that Fáilte Ireland is working with the applicants to ensure that these potential greenways are developed in a way that is compelling to overseas visitors and can deliver economic benefits to local communities and businesses."
"Major Potential To Draw More Overseas Visitors"
Meanwhile, Fáilte Ireland's head of activities Fiona Monaghan commented, "The government has made a significant commitment to developing greenways infrastructure across the country and this is good news for tourism and for the local economy across the regions. Greenways have been one of the biggest successes in Irish tourism in recent years and, with walking holidays on the rise across Europe, they have major potential to draw more overseas visitors to Ireland. By supporting and working with the local councils who have applied for government funding, we can ensure that the full tourism potential of greenways is realised and that communities across the country reap the economic benefits they will bring."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
