MORE THAN 2,000 farmers around the country are participating in rural walk schemes, according to the president of the Irish Farmers Association, John Bryan.
With Minister for Tourism Mary Hanafin, Mr Bryan was in Upperchurch, Co Tipperary, yesterday to announce an initiative to further develop rural tourism which, he said, could play a significant role in rural job creation and aid economic recovery. The Walkways scheme was introduced in 2008.
The recent development in Upperchurch of the Eamonn a Chnoic walking trail has increased the potential of the area, with the creation of a 9km walk as part of the Walkways scheme. It is one of 200 looped walks already established and developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs.
These walks link with a network of national waymarked trails, forest walks and coastal trails.
Fáilte Ireland is developing an additional 40 looped walks this year. The Walkways scheme alone has created 1,500km of scenic trails.
A further 26 walks which are also being developed will create another 426km.
A Fáilte Ireland survey showed hiking and walking was the second most popular active pursuit among those holidaying in Ireland and last year. More than 800,000 visitors engaged in walking activities and spent almost €0.5 billion.
Ms Hanafin said the tourism sector here was made up, in the main, of small and medium enterprises and family businesses and was an industry that benefited almost every community.
“I encourage everyone to consider holidaying at home this year, where you will have fun with your family while experiencing the beautiful scenery and culture we have to offer,” she said.