·        Adoption of Roscommon County Council Tourism Strategy.

Cllr. John Keogh, Chairperson of the Economic Development & Enterprise Support SPC introduced the presentation of the County Roscommon Tourism Strategy 2025-2030. The strategy sets out the vision for growth and development of tourism in County Roscommon. The strategy has been developed through collaboration with Roscommon County Council, tourism business, community groups and stakeholders as well as aligning with regional and national tourism policies.

Lisa Joy, Tourism Officer, delivered a presentation outlining the County Roscommon Tourism Strategy 2025-2030. The overall objective of Roscommon Tourism is to develop and promote County Roscommon as a year-round tourist destination. Lisa outlines how they worked alongside local community groups, elected members, tourism providers and businesses throughout County Roscommon. The strategy aligns with National Tourism Policy Framework and Failte Ireland – Irelands Hidden Heartlands brand. The goals of Roscommon are to grow tourism numbers, increase overnight stays and support local jobs and enterprise while safeguarding our communities and quality of life.

The presentation highlighted the Tourism Vision for Roscommon:

• A year-round immersive tourist destination with quality attractions
• A well-connected county with authentic and meaningful experiences
• A sustainable tourist destination through rich biodiversity and eco-tourism experiences
• A county with strong outdoor recreation offering – Greenways, Walking Trails and Cycleways
• A destination with vibrant festivals and events for all to enjoy

To achieve the Tourism Vision the strategy sets out five key strategic pillars:

1.    Destination Management – enhance public spaces, improve transport and access, build strong partnerships with tourism bodies and local businesses

2.    Visitor Experience Development – Engaging and Cultural activities, expand outdoor infrastructure, consider immersive technology for historical sites, improve visitor facilities

3.    Marketing and Communications – digital marketing, live stream of events, collaboration with influencers, journalists, TV production companies, strengthen the Roscommon brand

4.    Industry Support and Collaboration – Tourism network, engage local communities, grants, funding, support to businesses

5.    Accessible Outdoor Recreation - Enhance and expand existing outdoor recreation, expand water based- tourism, promote wildlife and biodiversity

Ms. Joy highlighted two Strategic Vision Projects – Hudson Bay Waterfront Park funded by the EU Just Transition and Lough Key Forest and Activity Park Masterplan led by Coillte in partnership with Roscommon County Council.

Members thanked Ms. Joy for the informative presentation and praised the work of her and her team promoting and enhancing tourism in Roscommon in recent years. The members mentioned many events, projects and festivals which have been a huge success. They agree that Roscommon has a lot to offer – low crime rate, longest shoring access, served by three major railway lines, heritage, walkways, cycleways.  The members discussed the following to further support tourism in Roscommon:

• Increasing accommodation as this is a major barrier with very little options for tourists
• Ensuring tourist attractions are accessible
• Holding family events
• Promoting tourist attractions in smaller towns and village
• Increase the use of the water in attracting tourists to Roscommon

Cllr. Cull asked if there was anything to direct members of the public to the start of the Miners Way walking trails. She asked for an update on the funding allocated for Audio Guide or QR codes for walkways. Ms. Joy to follow up with a response. Cllr. Cull also expressed the difficulty in obtaining insurance for the Discovery Park in Agrina and welcomed support with this.

Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, thanked Cllr. Keogh, the committee, elected members and the tourism team involved in the Tourism Strategy. He expressed his support of the strategy stating that tourism is a huge economic enabler and pivotal to the success of Roscommon with regards to job creation and economic growth. There is a great vision for Roscommon making it a wonderful place to visit.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Keogh

SECONDED by Cllr. Byrne

It was AGREED to adopt the Tourism Strategy 2025-2030.

On the proposal of Cathaoirleach Cllr. Callaghan it was agreed to extend standing orders for 15 minutes to conclude the meeting.