Pictured at the launch of the East to West Camino were the steering committee of the Tochar Valley Rural Community Network , including Mary B. Prendergast (chairperson), Sr. Maureen Lally (manager), John Cannon (treasurer), with Maura Murphy (Tourism Officer, Mayo County Council) and Eithne Cosgrove (Knock House Hotel). Photo: Trish Forde.

Launch of East to West Camino a major boost for Mayo

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A steering committee of the Tochar Valley Rural Community Network, Mayo, has launched a multi-county event called Ireland, East to West Camino.

The launch took place in Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon.

This walk is from Downpatrick, Co. Down, to Croagh Patrick in Mayo.

There was a large representation from the counties the trail passes through - Louth, Meath, Westmeath, Longford, Sligo, Roscommon and Mayo.

Apologies were received from Minister for Tourism Peter Bourke, Minister for Sport Patrick O' Donovan, Minister of State Alan Dillon and Deputy Rose Conway Walsh.

The cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Councillor Liam O Callaghan and leas cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Councillor Winston Bennett launched the event. Mary B. Prendergast was MC.

Speakers at the event included Jeremy Schewe from North Carolina with the Mapping skills.

Minister Dara Calleary sent a video link.

Elaine Conroy and Dr. Daniel Curley spoke of the importance of the Rathcroghan experience.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice congratulated the organisers, giving it his full support.

Fr. John Kenny, Adm., Westport, gave a blessing for pilgrims.

Sr. Maureen Lally spoke of the importance of communities and small businesses supporting this concept.

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