Kildare’s tourism body is to launch a new website learly in 2026 and ongoing collaboration with Fáilte Ireland on campaigns, the annual general meeting of the organization was told in Lullymore. CEO Áine Mangan presented operational updates on networking events, trade missions to Canada and London, participation in golf tournaments including the Irish Open, and the continued growth of the Saint Brigid’s Day programme. Ms Mangan announced plans for further international sales missions.
Over 65 hospitality businesses from across Kildare attended the meeting, including representatives from hotels, pubs, restaurants, retail experiences, racecourses, and visitor attractions, along with representatives from Kildare County Council and several county councillors.
David Mongey delivered his final address as chairman after eight years in the role and highlighted the organisation’s progress in promoting the county’s tourism assets.
Outgoing chair David Mongey told the AGM of Kildare County Council that the county offered canals, waterways, equestrian facilities and hotels ready for the 2027 Ryder Cup at the K Club. He praised cooperation with the council on projects including the Saint Brigid 1500 celebrations and the new Shackleton Experience in Athy. Cathaoirleach Mongey noted the success of Taste of Kildare and thanked the board and chief executive Áine Mangan for support during his tenure.
The financial reports showed total income of 855,684 euros and expenditure of 934,652 euros for 2024, resulting in a deficit of €78,968 euros covered by reserves. Kildare County Council provided core funding of €459,727 euros.
Treasurer representative Brian Flanagan emphasised the value of membership engagement and the shift from past years when funds were scarce to a position where projects could now be delivered.
Guest speaker Eoghan Corry discussed national tourism trends, reliance on the American market, the rise of luxury travel and the impact of artificial intelligence on booking patterns.
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park operates as an award-winning social enterprise located in the Bog of Allen. The park offer srestored peatlands, enhanced biodiversity, and supported the local community while showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of County Kildare.
Áine Mangan delivered a presentation on the activities of Into Kildare in collaboration with the tourism and hospitality sector, state agencies, and community groups over the past 12 months as well as plans for the year ahead.
Leas Cathaorleach of the council Veralouise Behan represented the council and reaffirmed funding support while stressing that tourism remained essential for local employment and community development.
“When you seen the beauty of these magnificent walks that happened in fairness to Kildare County Council the waterways and the canals about people it is such a beautiful place to walk around.”
“We think that Athy was a poor man of the county but it’s not what I say down there a rising ship will do an enormous amount of good work for there.”
Áine Mangan shared “We were delighted to host our Annual General Meeting at Lullymore and Discovery Park, a venue close to home for me as a Rathangan native. We were also pleased to welcome Eoghan Corry as our keynote speaker. Eoghan is no stranger to the county and delivered a fascinating presentation on how best to harness the potential of Kildare tourism, while highlighting ways to further enrich the visitor experience. We are looking forward to a proactive year for Kildare Tourism and hope to drive significant footfall to the county through key events. We are especially excited for Kildare to once again host the KPMG Women’s Irish Open at The K Club, along with many other important events throughout the year.”
Jonathan Judge shared “We were delighted to host the Into Kildare AGM and networking event at Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park. As members of the Kildare Tourism Network for over 20 years, we truly appreciate the support and opportunities provided over the years. We are proud to showcase Lullymore from a sustainability, biodiversity and event-hosting perspective. The Park is a model of sustainable and regenerative tourism, restoring peatlands, enhancing biodiversity and supporting the local community, while celebrating the unique natural and cultural heritage of Kildare.”
