Fáilte Ireland has welcomed the announcement of government funding for tourism projects by the minister for rural and community development Michael Ring under his department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
The national tourism development authority said that the announcement represents recognition of the importance and value of tourism to rural regeneration and development.
Delighted With Success
Speaking at the announcement in Castleblaney, Orla Carroll, director of product development at Fáilte Ireland said, "We are delighted that such a significant number of tourism related projects have been successful in their funding applications. Of the 66 projects announced today, 25 are tourism related supported by an allocation of just over €37.5 million. This funding will greatly enhance attractions throughout rural Ireland, which will boost visitor numbers to the regions and support local job creation in the tourism sector. The funding is a huge vote of confidence by the government in tourism, and reinforces the integral role that tourism plays in the national economy. As the funding allocation accounts for 75% of the total project costs, a further 25%, or over €9 million, may also be leveraged by the projects for tourism investment.
"As the national tourism development authority, it is one of Fáilte Ireland’s strategic objectives to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are spread regionally across the country. We will continue to work closely with the department of rural and community development to deliver quality visitor experiences nationwide to ensure vibrant local communities economically and socially."
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