West Cork is set to benefit from the Government’s announcent this week on a major initiative for Rural Ireland, which includes the addition of 31 new walking trails to her Department’s Walks Scheme and funding for a number of new Rural Recreation Officers.
The funding will connect the Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí walking trail between Cork and Cavan and create an additional Rural Recreation Officer post in West Cork.
The Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí walking trail is a 50km stretch of walkway connecting the Beara Peninsula through to the Bere Brefini in County Cavan .
The announcement delivers on commitments in both the Programme for Government and Our Rural Future to increase the number of trails under the ‘Walks Scheme’ in order to boost outdoor recreation and tourism in rural towns and villages.
Cork South West Deputy Christopher O’Sullivan and Senator Tim Lombard both welcomed the news.
“One of the most important part of the announcement by Minister Humphreys is the decision to appoint an additional Rural Recreation Officer in West Cork, as well as improving the salaries of the Rural Recreation Officers that are already carrying out great work across the country,” said Senator Lombard.
“Funding to connect the Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí walking trail between Cork and Cavan will be a huge tourist boost and help open the county to more local walkers, hikers and tourists,” said Cork South West Deputy Christopher O’Sullivan.
“The Beara way has been a huge success so far and we’re getting closer and closer to connecting the entire way, which will bring walkers from the top of the Beara Peninsula up to Bere Brefini in county Cavan,” continued Deputy O’Sullivan.
“This a huge attraction for West Cork and it will eventually rival the famous Camino to Santiago in Spain.”
