Ireland’s Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has announced details of €350,000 funding that his department will be providing as part of a new five-year strategic partnership with BnM (formerly known as Bord na Móna) designed to support and maintain new trail facilities being developed on lands across five counties: Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary and Westmeath.
Calleary said: “In recognition of the significant investment already being undertaken through the EU Just Transition Fund to create a midlands trail network across BnM’s landbank, my department is entering into a five year strategic partnership with BnM to support the ongoing maintenance of these new trails. The funding will also support trails within the Lough Boora Discovery Park.
“The new trail network, developed under the Just Transition Fund, opens up wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities. This unique opportunity is coming to life through BnM’s network of railways, bridges, bog roads and off-road trails and waterways.
“New landscapes and habitats, previously inaccessible to recreational users, will be open to be explored for cyclists and walkers alike. Significant EU and exchequer funds have been invested in this trail network and it is important that the trails are maintained to a high standard in years to come. In order to protect this investment, my department, is happy to partner with BnM to support and maintain these facilities for future generations.”
BnM CEO Tom Donnellan said: “BnM is working with our landbank, strategic partners and local communities to develop our renewable energy infrastructure and deliver on Ireland’s net zero ambition.
“BnM’s partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht is part of our commitment to create long-term social and environmental value for communities in the Midlands in addition to safeguarding Ireland’s renewable energy supply.
“These new amenities will contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the Midlands, alongside BnM’s Eco Energy Park and Renewable Energy projects and I want thank Minister Calleary and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for their support.”
The announcement is a key contributor to the implementation of Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 – 2027 which is set to strengthen and support the sustainable development of outdoor recreation in the coming years.
