Funding allocated to outdoor adventure projects in Cong and Killala

Funding of €50,000 has been awarded to Cong to Lisloughrey Pier Recreational Trail for the detailed design for a new 3.5km scenic trail connecting Cong and the 19th Century Dry canal structure and onwards to Kelly's cave.

The second project is for the creation of Ireland's first underwater artificial reef in Killala bay and environmental planning costs in Killala, which as also received €50,000 under the government's Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).

Fine Gael TD and Spokesperson on Tourism and Sport, Deputy Alan Dillon said both projects will 'provide a major boost to local economies by attracting visitors and furthering our reputation as a destination for adventure tourism'. 

Work has already been completed on a new car park in Lisloughery after almost four acres of land was acquired from Coillte for the development.

"These projects are to receive funding of up to €50,000 to bring them to a shovel-ready stage. Once at a shovel ready stage, they will be in a position to secure further funding through the other measures of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme," said Deputy Dillon. 

Funding for the delivery of projects on the ground under the other Measures of the scheme will be announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, early next year.

"These are two fantastic projects which have been in the planning stages for some time. I want to commend Mayo County Council for submitting these applications and I was happy to work alongside my colleagues Cllr Michael Burke and Cllr Jarlath Munnelly in progressing the trail in Cong and the artificial reef in Killala, which is a first for the country."