Outdoor Laois projects get €254,000 funding boost

Over €250,000 in funding has been allocated to two outdoor recreation projects in Laois. 

The funding, granted under the government’s National Outdoor Recreation Strategy,  Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, was allocated to the River Erkina Community Blueway and Derryounce Lakes and Trails in Portarlington.   

Minister of State Sean Fleming welcomed the announcement that two outdoor recreation projects in Laois will share €254,172 funding.

Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors was developed in partnership with Comhairle na Tuaithe and aims to strengthen and support our recreation sector in Ireland. Throughout Ireland we have our forests, mountain trails, rivers, greenways and beaches.

“These outdoor amenities are of huge benefit in our communities improving our mental and physical health as well as bringing economic benefits in our communities,” said Minister Fleming. 

He said “I am very pleased to see two great projects in Laois being granted funding.”

The River Erkina Community Blueway: The development will consist of a floating pontoon and access at Castle Durrow Demesne, a foot bridge on the River Goul at its confluence with the River Erkina, carpark and access at the Woodenbridge and access steps at Boston Bridge received €191,728. 

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Derryounce Lakes & Trails, Portarlington: Provide a link to Derryounce trail from both Laois and Offaly received  €62,444. 

 “I would like to congratulate all involved in these projects on their successful applications and look forward to commencing which will be of great benefit to all in our local community and those visiting Laois,” said Minister Fleming.

Welcoming the funding, Deputy Charlie Flanagan said: “Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors is about building on this momentum. It is about the strategic development of Ireland’s Outdoor Recreation sector so we can deliver maximum benefits to communities across the county.”

“Those benefits are huge. Spending time outdoors supports our mental and physical health and it improves our quality of life. There also huge economic benefits, particularly for rural communities, here in Laois, with over 2.7m overseas visitors taking part in outdoor activities every year in Ireland.   Through this Strategy – the Government believes it can make Ireland the destination of choice internationally for outdoor recreation and adventure tourism,” he said.