Need to promote North Offaly's tourism potential

Cllr. Eddie Fitzpatrick, Independent General Election candidate for Offaly, is adamant that any future tourism promotion for the county must include the fantastic facilities and amenities that North Offaly has to offer. Up until now, this region has been somewhat lagging behind other areas of the county but in recent times good progress has been made.

“I plan to seek an urgent meeting with the Minister for Tourism to make this a priority when I get elected to Dail Eireann. Tourism is very important for the economic wellbeing of Offaly.

As a county, we offer some unique attractions. We are all very proud of Lough Boora and its tremendous walking, cycling, fishing, and bird watching opportunities. We are also blessed with the unspoilt Slieve Bloom mountains which offer walking opportunities to all levels and the Shannon is an area of outstanding beauty. But let us not forget the many things that North Offaly has to offer,” says Cllr Fitzpatrick.

In relation to North Offaly, he cited the Grand Canal Greenway beginning just outside Edenderry and going all the way to the River Shannon. Describing it as a beautiful facility to walk and cycle on, he said excellent improvements had been made to the canal-side, offering a route way that is accessible to walkers, cyclists, and people with mobility challenges.

He also referenced Croghan Hill is an attraction to many, "whether you want the challenge of the tough climb to the top to enjoy the panoramic view for miles around, or you want to explore the rich archaeological significance of the area", the weekly park run at Mount Lucas, and the local walkways, lakes and trails in this area are constantly being upgraded especially Derryounce Lakes and Trails near Portarlington.

"So, there is no excuse for leaving North Offaly in the dark when it comes to promoting tourism in this area and I am steadfast in my commitment to ensure that the region gets the recognition and publicity that it so well deserves,” he added.