Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Gallagher for raising this issue today. I can confirm that my Department has received an application for funding from Monaghan County Council to support a 2.5 km off-road family cycling route at Rossmore Forest Park under this year's outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme. I understand that the proposed project is part of a larger series of works set out in the Rossmore Forest Park master plan, which was developed by Monaghan County Council in partnership with Coillte. This is an ambitious plan with a number of different elements designed to realise the significant potential of the park while managing it in a sustainable way. It is expected that the plan will be implemented by Monaghan County Council on a phased basis. The council has already been successful in securing funding from my Department under the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme. Rossmore Forest Park received funding of over €420,000 under the scheme in 2018. This funding has not yet been drawn down, although it is expected that works will be completed early next year. This is in addition to funding of €115,000 provided to the park in 2016. The type of work being funded includes the upgrading of paths and signage and new footbridges, as well as improved access and recreation points. I understand that funding was also provided through the PEACE programme for the development of an adventure play park.

The commencement of the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme in 2016 marked the first time in recent years that a dedicated funding stream was available for bodies involved in the provision of this type of infrastructure. Demand for funding remains high and there is enormous potential to further develop the outdoor recreation sector. I intend to continue to support projects of this type through measures such as the rural regeneration development fund, LEADER and the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme.This year, my Department sought applications under the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme for three measures ranging from small-sized projects costing less than €20,000 to large projects requiring investment of up to €500,000. My Department has received 284 applications under the three measures this year, representing a total request for funding of approximately €24 million. My officials must assess each application carefully on its own merits to ensure that good value for public moneys is received from any funding committed under the scheme. Last month, I announced funding of €1.8 million for 109 projects under measure 1 of the 2019 scheme. This includes five projects in County Monaghan. The assessment of the applications received under the larger measures is still ongoing. These include the new application received in respect of Rossmore Forest Park. I hope to make announcements in this regard in the near future.