Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This weekend in Ballinasloe, we will have a tourism event that has something for everyone. It is about showcasing everything that is on offer. Last week, I was with the Minister, Deputy Catherine Martin, in the Seanad to speak on statements on tourism and in particular, the importance of the tourism activator role in respect of the just transition. A role has been allocated for each county under the Fáilte Ireland just transition measures for the midlands and west. As I mentioned during the debate, Ballinasloe Municipal District was one of the districts concerned. The tourism activator role would be crucial to supporting businesses in applying for funding for tourism to help promote our region, as well as funding for walks and trails. I called for the person to be located in the Ballinasloe Municipal District offices and to represent that district. It is the only district in County Galway to be in the scheme.

If anyone is in the west, there will be guided bog walks this weekend. There is a brand new gin and whiskey distillery in an old mill that has been renovated. Millions of euro have been poured into making this a place to visit. It has the most amazing whiskey and gin one can get and is in a good location. There is also the River Suck cruise and the Battle of Aughrim site. All of these events will show what a great place the west is to live in, work and visit.