Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, unveiled a seven-year tourism strategy for the Boyne Valley at Emerald Park, aiming to position the region as a top experiential destination globally.
The strategy was developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, including input from over 400 visitors, agencies, and industry experts, ensuring a well-rounded approach.
It outlines 16 recommendations and seven strategic objectives, highlighting six key projects such as the Boyne Valley National Park and development of greenways, focusing on enhancing tourism in Meath and Louth.
Local officials emphasized the strategy’s potential for significant economic growth and job creation while committing to environmental preservation and community involvement in tourism development.
Chief Executive of Meath County Council, Kieran Kehoe shared: “Our collaborative efforts with key partners, including Fáilte Ireland in the Boyne Valley region, have been central in shaping a comprehensive strategy that reflects our shared commitment to promoting sustainable and authentic tourism in the Boyne Valley region.”
“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 planned investment in tourism under this strategy, including for projects such as the development of Boyne Valley National Park with key stakeholders, Boyne Valley Food Development, Coastal Tourism Development, along with our active travel network incorporating the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway and the East Coast Greenway, demonstrate an ambitious but sustainable approach to tourism.
Ac ting Chief Executive at Louth County Council, Joe McGuinness, shared: “Louth County Council is delighted to welcome the launch of the new seven-year tourism strategy for the Boyne Valley, which has a clear aim to develop and enhance the huge potential of this region.
“The specific projects identified provide a real opportunity for further growth in the tourism industry in Louth, and the strategy overall will certainly put the Boyne Valley on the map as a premier international destination.”
Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Kevin Callan shared: “The Boyne Valley, renowned for its rich culture and heritage, boasts a captivating coastline, picturesque villages and towns, and an extensive network of greenways. These features combine to offer visitors a diverse range of memorable and unique experiences, including visits to ancient historical sites, outdoor activities, and authentic local cuisine. This comprehensive plan aims to position the Boyne Valley as one of the foremost experiential destinations globally. I am delighted to welcome this ambitious tourism strategy for Louth and Meath.”
Minister Helen McEntee shared: “We are so fortunate to live in a region steeped in heritage, culture & food. I am looking forward to working with both Council’s on helping to implement this strategy going forward and help to clearly put the Boyne Valley Region on the world map as a leading experiential destination. The Boyne Valley Tourism Strategy has a clear vision that will develop, strengthen and grow our already vibrant Tourism industry in county Meath and Louth.”
