Minister Heather Humphreys has today (Monday, January 18th) announced over €214,000 in funding for outdoor projects in Counties Monaghan and Cavan.

The funding, under the Government’s Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, is designed to improve public amenities such as walking trails, parks, greenways and other attractions.

The investment is part of a package of almost €3.2 million that will fund 173 projects nationwide.

In Monaghan, projects that have secured investment include the Ulster Canal Greenway, Rossmore Forest Park, Gortnawhinny Lake, Muckno Park, Emyvale Eco Trail, Carrickmacross Looped Walks and Sliabh Beagh in Knockatallon.

Over €23,000 has also been secured to promote the county in terms of tourism.

Meanwhile, in Cavan, four projects have been selected for funding.

These include the Cavan-Leitrim Railway Greenway, the UNESCO Geopark, Killykeen Forest Park and the amenity at Barnagrow Lake.

 The funding package is being announced in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, who are co-funding the projects with the Department of Rural and Community Development.

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Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said:

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“I am delighted that so many of these worthy projects in Cavan and Monaghan and have been selected for funding.  I know it will come as welcome news to the many people who use these amenities.

The last year has demonstrated more than ever the importance of amenities for our physical and mental wellbeing. 

“There has been a notable increase in the number of people using our walking trails, cycleways, parks and other resources to exercise and keep fit, while respecting the guidelines on social distancing during the COVID-19 crisis. 

“The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme has provided investment for the development of new amenities and the enhancement of existing facilities since2016 and that investment is now proving its worth as more and more people discover and appreciate the facilities available on their doorstep.

“I want to acknowledge the support of our partners, Fáilte Ireland, who are once again co-funding the successful projects under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.”

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