'Disappointment' over level of backing for Mayo coastal walk

WORK has commenced on upgrade improvements on the Kilcummin Loop Walk and Headland in north Mayo, but one local public representative would like to see additional backing from Fáilte Ireland.

Ballina Municipal District passed a motion at its September meeting to write to Fáilte Ireland seeking a timeline for the approval of funding to progress the Céide Coastal Walk (between Downpatrick Head and Céide Fields).

In a detailed response, Luke Murray, Fáilte Ireland team manager for Mayo and Sligo, said that, at present, they do not have an active funding application before it in respect of the Céide Coastal Path and there is currently no open Fáilte Ireland funding stream through which an application for the project can be considered.

He added: “In line with A New Era for Irish Tourism, the national tourism policy statement, and Fáilte Ireland's recently published corporate strategy, the organisation is currently developing a new capital investment plan.

"It is anticipated that schemes will arise from this plan, funded through the NDP, and would be publicly advertised on the Fáilte Ireland website and open to projects that meet the relevant eligibility and assessment criteria.

"As these schemes are still under development, it is not possible to comment or to provide detail on the eligibility of individual projects at this stage.”

Councillor Michael Loftus said he was disappointed with the response and suggested a strongly-worded letter should go to the CEO and the board of Fáilte Ireland in relation to capital funding for the Céide Coastal Walk project.

However, Councillor Jarlath Munnelly said they should be careful that they do not appear too negative or critical. What they should be asking is when the funding is likely to come.

“The projects will come,” he said. “It's a question of when. We do not want to seem like we're criticising Fáilte Ireland locally. They have been working well locally.”

Coucillor Loftus said he just wanted a letter to be sent expressing their disappointment about the funding not coming to the area – and not just to north Mayo, but all parts of the county.

Anna Connor, head of Ballina MD, said they will issue a letter to the CEO of Fáilte Ireland concerning the timelines in the capital programme.

The Kilcummin Loop Walk and Headland works – thanks to ORIS funding of €222,222 – includes improvements to the trail surface and the provision of eco toilets.

* Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.