Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has announced funding of over €1 million to support and improve 517 walking trails across the country.
Under the initiative, some 203 community groups will receive grants ranging from €1,500-€35,000 for the development and upgrade of their local trails.
Funding is also being provided under the scheme to support groups to promote their trails as tourist attractions.
Among the Community Groups being approved funding today include:
- Co Cork : Sheep’s Head Way Limited;
- Co Kerry: Dingle Way Committee;
- Co Mayo: North Mayo Heritage Committee;
- Co Offaly: Moneygall Development Association;
- Co Tipperary: Tipperary Trails Group;
- Co Wexford: Kiltealy Walking Trails;
- Co Wicklow: Glenmalure PURE Mile Group and Glens of Lead Group.
Cork will receive the most funding for its walking trails with €176,167, followed by Co Kerry with €147,000 and Co Tipperary with €128,167.
Announcing the funding on Friday, Minister Humphreys said: “Our walkways and outdoor trails really do showcase all that is good about our rural towns and villages.
“So today, I’m delighted to announce over €1 million for 517 trails right across the country. This funding will be used to upgrade and maintain these trails – but also to promote them from a tourism perspective.
“I know we are coming into winter and the evenings are getting darker – but getting out for some fresh air, to clear the head, is so important.
“I want to finally thank all the community groups and Trail Management Organisations that keep our trails in good condition. You do wonderful work, and I’m delighted to support you.”
