Michael Ring T.D., Minister of State for Regional Economic Development at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs yesterday (Thursday ) announced the provision of funding of €34,600 for the enhancement of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail over two projects.
Funding also will be provided to Mayo County Council of €25,000 for a Trailhead development at Knock and the development of an extension of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail from Balla to Knock, a distance of 21km.
A further €9,600 will be provided to South West Mayo Development Company for the upgrading of signage along the Balla to Murrisk section of the route bringing consistency to signage and map boards along the route.
Speaking today Minister Ring said “I am delighted to be able to provide this funding under the Rural Recreation Scheme for the extension and enhancement of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail.
This world renowned trail is of huge importance to the region and investment is critical to maintain it as a high standard visitor attraction. The benefits to the local economy are all too clear and we must continue to invest in such amenities in rural areas.”
Minister Ring concluded by stating that this funding is in addition to the €654k that has been granted to rural recreation projects in Mayo this year and is a clear commitment to rural Ireland as provided for in the Programme for a Partnership Government.
