Minister for Tourism John O'Donoghue has announced funding of up to €3.6 million for 11 tourism projects around the State. The announcement includes over €700,000 for three projects in Co Kerry.
The largest grant, of €952,765, has been allocated to Ballybay Wetlands Centre, Ballybay, Co Cavan, for the establishment of eco-tourism on the Dromore River.
A grant of €602,750 has been allocated for the environmental protection of the Burren in Co Clare and a €558,419 grant has been earmarked to fund a new tourism centre in Donegal.
In Kerry, up to €384,332 is earmarked for the development of a walk on the northwestern end of Killarney National Park, and €250,000 has been allocated for the development and improvement of walking routes in other parts of the county.
In addition, a grant of €68,163 will help fund the development of a car park with picnic tables and a bird observation area at Tralee Bay Bird Observatory, Blennerville.
A grant of €372,223 will assist the reconstruction of Mizen Head footbridge in west Cork and €173,000 has been provided for the construction of a walkway at James Fort in Kinsale.
Two grants of €74,000 have been allocated for the provision of an amenity area at Mount Leinster, Nine Stones, Co Carlow and a parking area at St Mullins amenity area, in the same county.
The funding is to be provided under the Tourism Product Development Scheme, which is administrated by Fáilte Ireland.
Mr O'Donoghue said that he was delighted to announce the grants.
"I am sure that the projects being supported will prove to be important tourism assets for their respective counties and regions," he said.
Grants totalling €45.28 million have been approved in respect of 70 tourism projects under the scheme, he added.
