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Minister of State Ring visits Connemara National Park and announces over €250,000 capital investment for 2016
Michael Ring TD, Minister of State for Regional Economic Development, today (Tuesday 6th September, 2016) paid his first official visit to Connemara National Park. The Minister has responsibility for each of Ireland’s six national parks as part of his brief.
On his visit the Minister praised the wonderful amenities that are available in our National Parks:“Ireland’s six National Parks are there for all of the people of this country to enjoy. They are also a wonderful draw for tourists and demonstrate the beautiful variety of Ireland’s natural heritage.Our national parks form an integral part of our national tourism product, and can play a key role in regional development. I look forward to visiting all of our National Parks in the coming months.”
The Minister also confirmed over €250,000 of capital investment for Connemara National Park. The funding, which is part of the Department's Capital Programme for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, is aimed at priority capital projects identified within the country's 6 National Parks and 80 statutory Nature Reserves.
Over €200,000 has been allocated to upgrading works, which include road repairs and resurfacing at Kylemore, construction works on the wall at Sruffaunboy and upgrading of interpretation material. €40,000 has been allocated to upgrading and general maintenance works on the Diamond Hill in addition to the €49,000 that was spent on this refurbishment work last year. A further €10,000 has been allocated for the control of invasive species.
Speaking today Minister Ring said:
‘While the last few years have been difficult in relation to Exchequer funding, I am delighted that we are in a position to invest further in our natural heritage. This funding by my Department reflects the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government to enhance supports for rural Ireland. It is my intention to continue to invest in our National Parks and Nature Reserves to ensure they remain a vital tourist resource which underpin the economy, both nationally and regionally.’
ENDS