The Donegal Interpretative Project – a unique community tourism initiative for County Donegal, was formally launched by Donegal County Council and Údarás naGaeltachta at Fanad Head on Thursday 9th April.
The €90,000 tourism development project aims to improve visitor management at key tourist locations throughout the County. The recently completed first phase of the project has led to the installation of 20 tourist interpretative panels or story boards at selected areas in Fanad, Malin Head, Gweedore and Slieve League.
The project was initiated by Donegal County Council in conjunction with Udaras NaGaeltachta and Failte Ireland and involved an extensive planning and community consultation process. Workshops were held in each of the locations, with local people and community groups were invited to share their experiences and stories regarding key themes relevant to each area. The aim of this consultation was to ensure that the tourism interpretation accurately reflected the social and cultural fabric of the place and people at each given location.
Launching the project, Cllr. Noel McBride, Chairperson of Milford Electoral Area, said “ I wish to congratulate all of those involved in this unique tourism initiative, in particular, recognition must be given to all of the local community groups, volunteer organisations and people who gave up their time to contribute to the planning process. County Donegal is a region internationally recognised for its culture, heritage and environmental value, and it is my belief that this project certainly adds value to an increasingly diverse range of tourism products. “
The Donegal Interpretative Project was the first of its kind on the Island of Ireland and was co-funded by Donegal County Council and Udaras NaGaeltachta in conjunction with Failte Ireland.
For further information please contact Kevin O’Connor by email: kevin.oconnor@donegalcoco.ie or tel: 0872589723.