merrion street

€2.6 million worth of new investment in two key tourism projects in Waterford and Offaly were announced today by Tourism Minister Leo Varadkar.

Almost €1.9 million is being provided in Waterford under Fáilte Ireland's Tourism Capital Investment Programme to enhance the Viking Triangle area. The funding will be used to improve signage including new interpretative material and directional signs. Extensive paving and seating areas will also be provided. The aim is to provide a direct link between the outdoor environment and the interiors of the individual tourist attractions.

Minister Varadkar commented:

This project demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment to tourism in the South East. The Viking Triangle will be a landmark tourist attraction which will create jobs, stimulate the local economy and boost the tourism industry in the region. This funding will ensure that the visitor attractions are presented in the best possible manner.

In Co. Offaly the investment of €730,000 at Lough Boora will involve an upgrade of the Lough Boora Parklands infrastructure. A new visitor service centre will be provided along with parking areas, and access facilities will be improved. The upgrades will help to ensure the continued viability of tourism in the area.

Louth Boora is already a fantastic facility in its own right, and is a key tourism attraction in the Midlands region. It’s important that we sustain investment in tourism right across the country. Tourism is central to the Government’s plans for economic recovery and job creation, and the industry sustains 180,000 jobs across the country.