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20 Apr 2026
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20 Apr 2026
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Pictured is Minister Dara Calleary
Two communities in Mayo are set to benefit from a €135,000 investment as part of a nationwide announcement by Minister Dara Calleary.
Speaking on the announcement, Minister Calleary expressed his delight at allocating €105,000 for Belleek Woods and €30,000 for Tourmakeady Trail as part of a €3.13 million investment in Coillte recreational sites.
"The funding that my Department is allocating to Belleek Woods will support the first installation of play features in the very popular woodland, creating a new play trail designed to enhance the visitor experience for families and children.
“The development aims to make Belleek even more engaging while encouraging outdoor activity in a safe and natural environment,” he added.
Furthermore, Minister Calleary says the €30,000 funding for Tourmakeady will be for the addition of trail protection features along the river to reduce erosion and protect the walking route.
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The Mayo TD said amenities such as Belleek Woods are extremely important for community wellbeing.
“The new trail will further boost the appeal of Belleek as a key recreational destination in North Mayo and will attract more visitors while enhancing the experience of the woods for local families,” he added.
Minister Calleary stated that the partnership with Coillte is one of the most important, and he looks forward to developing a new strategic partnership from 2027.
“Alongside strategic partnerships such as this, my Department is also providing direct investment through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS),” he added.
Speaking on the 2026 investment plan, Imelda Hurley, Coillte CEO, said:
“The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) is a key, long-term strategic partner of Coillte, and I’d like to thank Minister Dara Calleary and his officials at the Department for their ongoing support.
“We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the DRCDG to develop the next strategic programme from 2027 onwards and to supporting even more people in enjoying the many benefits of our forests nationwide,” she added.
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