Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal Charlie McConalogue has welcomed Fáilte Ireland’s plans to develop a Visitor Experience Development Plan for Inishowen over the coming months.
Deputy McConalogue says the plan, in conjunction with the Wild Atlantic Way, will increase tourism numbers on the peninsula and will be hugely beneficial to the local economy.
Similar plans have been developed successfully for the Dingle Peninsula, the Skellig Coast, the Burren and Cliffs of Moher, as well as for Connemara and the Aran islands.
“Inishowen has already benefitted from the Wild Atlantic Way but we need to fully harness our potential and focus on trying to grow and build on that with new projects and initiatives.
“The Visitor Experience Development Plan will be progressed alongside a master plan for Malin Head – consultants for that projects are due to be appointed in the next few weeks,” explained Deputy McConalogue.
“I welcome Fáilte Ireland’s commitment to liaise with local businesses, tourism and community groups, Donegal County Council and local development agencies as well as people living on the peninsula to develop the plans for Inishowen and Malin Head. It is extremely important that a good relationship is established and enhanced as the plan is devised and implemented.
“The funding is an essential part of these projects – Fáilte Ireland has committed to providing grants of up to €200,000 to help deliver new tourist attractions and facilities as part of the Visitor Experience Development Plan.
“One of the main aims of this plan will be to bolster the sustainability of tourism on the peninsula by creating experiences and attractions that will encourage visitors to stay for longer periods of time in the area.
“These plans will make a real difference to communities and businesses on the Inishowen peninsula. I am hopeful that people will engage with the consultation process over the coming weeks and months to ensure that we make the best of these great opportunities”, concluded McConalogue.