Lough derg

Noel Coonan TD Welcomes Confirmation of €2 million for Lough Derg

Noel Coonan TD has welcomed confirmation of €2 million in funding to develop the potential of Lough Derg as part of yesterday’s €200 million Government Stimulus announcement.

“Fine Gael Minister Leo Varadkar on Tuesday announced additional investment of €200 million from the sale of state assets to fund new projects.” explained Deputy Coonan. “These include new road schemes, social housing, tourism-related works and projects to commemorate the foundation of our State. The projects will be spread around the country, to create economic activity and employment on a regional basis.

“This €200 million is additional to the €3.3 billion capital investment that the Exchequer had already committed to making this year and an important aspect of the plan is €2 million to develop the potential of Lough Derg as a key tourism destination. The Lough Derg development plan involves the development of the tourism infrastructure for sightseeing, walking, cycling, and water based activities as well as the heritage, culture and food offerings.”

“Confirmation of this funding will provide a massive tourism boost to the Lough Derg area, attract many new tourists who are seeking scenic outdoor activities in the Midlands and provide very crucial revenue for local businesses in the area.

“Another important element of the plan is an additional €5 million to bolster capital supports for the childcare sector programme. The types of works supported through this funding include improvements to accessibility of services for children with disabilities, provision of natural outdoor spaces to promote active outdoor play and ensuring buildings are fit for purpose under Childcare Regulations,” concluded Deputy Coonan.