Waterford Fine Gael Senator John Cummins has welcomed this morning’s announcement by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys of €133,857 for six projects across Waterford under Measure 1 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).
Senator Cummins said “ORIS has been a huge success since it was introduced by Fine Gael under the governments flagship ‘Our Rural Future’ policy. Measure 1 provides funding of up to €30,000 to develop outdoor amenities such as walkways, cycleways and other associated infrastructure”.
Three projects in Waterford are to receive the maximum funding of €30,000 each, they are Forbairt ar Cóbh Heilbhic, Passage East Trail & the creation of a Biodiversity hot spot and pocket recreation area on the Waterford Greenway at Carriganore. Tower Hill Woods Walking Trails, St. Declan's Way and the Comeragh Mountain Trails are to receive €15,885, €12,132 and €15,840 respectively to install seating, upgrade trails and way finding signage.
“I am delighted to welcome today’s announcement which sees another injection of funds for Waterford. We are very lucky here in Waterford to have so many natural beauty spots which locals and visitors alike visit and enjoy. ORIS improvesamenities, making them even more enjoyable places for families. The projects will also provide a major boost to local economies on completion by attracting visitors and furthering our reputation as a destination for adventure tourism”.
Senator Cummins continued: “Today’s announcement carries significant economic and social benefits for our rural communities in Waterford, giving families a variety of activities that are easily accessible, low cost and on their doorstep. This funding announcement further displays this Governments rooted commitment to rural Ireland. Funding like this contributes to making all parts of Waterford a better place to live, work and raise a family, and I look forward to using many of these amenities in the time ahead.
Commenting on the announcement Minister Humphreys said: “I would encourage everyone who can to get out and about, and make the most of what our countryside has to offer.”
Minister Humphreys continued: “The Government’s Rural Development policy, “Our Rural Future”, has allowed us to invest in our outdoor amenities at a level never before seen in Ireland.”
“I’m also pleased that this investment will mark another step forward in delivering on the Government’s ambitious new National Outdoor Recreation Strategy – Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors’”