Boost for Island Tourism

A multi-million euro investment package has been announced to boost tourism and develop new visitor attractions on two islands.

Fáilte Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta will work in conjunction with comharchumann (community cooperatives) on Inis Mór and Cléire to bring the projects to fruition. It is part of an initiative to encourage Gaeltacht visits and provide economic benefits to local communities.

A total of €3m has been allocated to develop a new visitor centre on Inis Mór. The Árainn Place of Stone development will be located in Cill Rónáin, at the former Aran Islands Heritage Centre. The “immersive attraction” will celebrate the linguistic and cultural heritage of the island. It will include a community space, changing facilities and a cafe, and will open year round as part of the effort to extend the tourist season on the island.

In Co Cork, €1m is being provided for the upgrade of the Cape Clear Fastnet Experience and Heritage Centre. The funding will be used to create a new innovative visitor experience, offering augmented reality and 3D experiences centred around Fastnet Lighthouse. The existing museum will also be upgraded.

Fáilte Ireland says increasing the length of visits and encouraging tourism beyond the summer months at both locations could generate almost €50m in visitor spend over the next decade.