Cork to benefit from Celtic Routes initiative

CORK, Waterford and Wexford will benefit from a new tourism initiative called ‘Celtic Routes’ which aims to encourage and attract visitors to explore new areas of Ireland’s coast.

Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune has welcomed the new programme which is supported by €1.6 million of EU funds.

“Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important economic sectors, particularly in the South and South East of Ireland.

“In the context of Brexit, it is vital that we support the development and promotion of tourism in our coastal areas, and work together to offset the drop in numbers of visitors from the UK,” said Deirdre Clune MEP.

Celtic Routes aims to transform less well known areas from transit zones to new touring sites, increasing the time visitors spend in these regions and capitalising on the opportunities to boost local economies.

“The focus of this programme isn’t on tourist hot spots, rather encouraging visitors to explore local scenery, hospitality and culture in Waterford, Wexford and Cork.

“In helping to increase visitor numbers, Celtic Routes will stimulate economic growth and both create and safeguard jobs in cultural, heritage and tourism sectors. It is a cross-border programme with Wales, and this connectivity is an important element for success also.”

Celtic Routes will also encourage tourists to visit and stay in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion in Wales.

The programme will be developed through customer research, trade events and workshops as well as cross border visits by businesses in Ireland and Wales to bring together expertise and ideas.

This programme is part-funded by the EU’s Ireland Wales co-operation programme which supports collaboration between Ireland and Wales to address common economic and social challenges and opportunities.