New angling facility in Foxford gives access to all
Inland Fisheries Ireland has welcomed the opening of East Mayo Anglers Association disabled angling facility on the River Moy in Foxford.
The €200,000 facility, which was opened last Friday by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, gives access to wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility over a large stretch of the popular salmon angling destination.
The new facility comes with a 76-metre accessible fishing platform with access ramps and railings to allow all members of the public to safely access the river. It also includes changing facilities, designed for shelter from the weather, and an accessible car park.
The project was funded by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) to the tune of €160,000 under the National Strategy for Angling Development, with a further €30,000 contributed from East Mayo Anglers Association.
A number of fisheries development projects have been completed across the country under the strategy, which is the first comprehensive national framework for the development of Ireland’s angling resource. With an overarching emphasis on conservation, the strategy focuses on improving angling access, developing angling tourism, and recognising angling as a key leisure and recreational pursuit.
Dr. Ciaran Byrne, CEO of IFI, acknowledged the commitment and hard work of East Mayo Anglers Association in delivering the new angling facility. “Their dedication and constructive attitude to making a valuable difference in their locality is exemplary,” he said. “The idea for this accessible angling facility was born in Foxford and we were delighted to support with financial assistance and guidance, where needed, from our staff. We are working to replicate projects and partnerships, just like this one, across Ireland through the National Strategy for Angling Development.”
Minister Ring added: “The highly collaborative approach of both East Mayo Anglers Association and Inland Fisheries Ireland has led to the high quality facility here. The ongoing conservation and development of our fisheries resource relies on a high level of collaboration between all those who have an interest in this precious natural amenity, and we see the fruits of such a partnership here. I would like to take this opportunity to recognise and sincerely congratulate all the club committee members who have worked tirelessly to get us to this point today.”
IFI will announce details of a new funding call under the National Strategy for Angling Development this month. Further details will be available on www.fisheriesireland.ie.