Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Recently I had the opportunity to attend the launch of the tourism master plan for Shannon which, again, will promote the Hidden Heartlands. The whole river master plan for the Shannon region clearly demonstrates the opportunities and potential to grow tourism in many counties. I compliment Waterways Ireland, along with all the local authorities through which the River Shannon flows, for their co-operative nature in developing this strategy.

We want to see it implemented now so we need investment. The plan gives a strategic direction and identifies necessary tourism investment. A central part of the strategy is the need to protect and enhance the environment. One can protect and enhance the environment while having a positive impact on the economy and providing employment opportunities to many rural areas.

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