Councillors welcome 'Ireland's Hidden Heartlands'

Nenagh district councillors have welcomed Fáilte Ireland's new 'Ireland's Hidden Heartlands' initiative.

At the April meeting of Nenagh Municipal District, Cllr Ger Darcy (FG) said the imitative would bring a much-needed tourism focus to the middle of Ireland and promote local attractions like Lough Derg and the Beara Breifne Way.

Cllr Michael O'Meara (Ind) described the initiative as the “first major attempt nationally to address tourism in our area”. He had heard “through the grapevine” that there would be substantial future investment to support the imitative.

Cllr Hughie McGrath (Ind) wanted the scheme advertised with motorway signage. He also called for an overall strategy with regard to accommodation locally, saying there have in the past been issues over availability of beds.

Also welcoming the initiative, Cllr Joe Hannigan (Ind) said Ireland's Hidden Heartlands must be supported with investment in infrastructure such as roads and broadband. The R493 in particular needs investment, Cllr Hannigan said, adding that he hopes to arrange a vis to the area from Ministers Shane Ross and Kevin Boxer Moran.