An ambitious new seven-year tourism strategy has been mapped out by the county councils in Meath and Louth for the Boyne Valley, which aims to position the region within Ireland’s Ancient East as one of the world’s leading experiential destinations.
The strategy was officially launched by the Justice Minister Helen McEntee (pictured below) at an event in early October at Emerald Park, a tourist destination that has enjoyed a successful season with almost 820,000 this year, and a recent investment of €22 million.
Minister McEntee said, ‘The Boyne Valley Tourism Strategy has a clear vision to develop, strengthen and grow our already vibrant tourism industry in Meath and Louth. We are fortunate to live in a region steeped in heritage, culture and food. I look forward to working with both councils to implement this strategy and help clearly put the Boyne Valley Region on the world map as a leading experiential destination.”
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD pictured with Meath County Council’s Cathaoirleach Cllr Sharon Tolan, Chairperson of Boyne Valley Tourism Board Cllr Aisling Dempsey, Minister for Sport Thomas Byrne TD and Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council Kevin Callan at the launch of the Boyne Valley Tourism Strategy in Emerald Park.
Speaking about tourism in the region, Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said that when he became chief executive, the development of tourism in County Meath has been one of his key strategic priorities. “Although ambitious, this strategy will, I believe, transform this county over the coming seven years. The positive economic impact and job opportunities that tourism can generate are widely recognised. However, our ambition for growth is complemented by a strong dedication to preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage and actively involving the local community. Our collaborative efforts with key partners, including Fáilte Ireland, have been central in shaping a comprehensive strategy that reflects our shared commitment to promoting sustainable and authentic tourism in the Boyne Valley”.
Welcoming the launch of the new seven-year strategy, Louth County Council’s temporary Chief Executive Joe McGuinness said it has a clear aim to develop and enhance this region’s huge potential. “The specific projects identified provide a real opportunity for further growth in the tourism industry in Louth. Overall, the strategy will certainly put the Boyne Valley on the map as a premier international destination.”
Meath County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Sharon Tolan praised the tourism industry leaders, who attended the launch, for their dedication to developing and promoting the Boyne Valley as a tourism destination. “You have invested in your businesses, in the community and in communicating a positive message about tourism to visitors. The launch of this strategy allows us to highlight tourism as an important economic driver and to confidently market the unique and authentic visitor experiences that are core to the Boyne Valley. Most of all, we want you to continue to support this venture as the tourism industry is the most important link.”
