Minister for Disability and Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East, Anne Rabbitte, has officially opened the €2.8m redevelopment of Connacht Harbour in Portumna, as well as the Lough Derg Blueway Extension in the town.
The Minister joined officials from Waterways Ireland and Fáilte Ireland to mark the opening, which has seen a significant expansion:
- the number of mooring berths in the harbour for public use, as well as
- the addition of canoe steps for access to the Lough Derg Blueway;
- additional onshore facilities such as seating and picnic areas;
- a new cycle and walking trail linking Connaught Harbour to Portumna town and Lough Derg Blueway;
- additional parking facilities, including EV chargers, and improves the visual impact of the harbour, creating a sense of arrival in the town.
Lough Derg Blueway
Also officially opened is the first phase of the extension of Lough Derg Blueway, connecting Connaught Harbour to Castle Harbour. At circa 3km in length it forms a vital link between the two Waterways Ireland owned harbours as well as the 30km of cycling and walking trails in the forest park and the linear trail of over 10km to Meelick weir.
Marie Gibbs, Portumna Castle, Minister Rabbitte and Eanna Rowe, Operations Controller, Waterways Ireland
Minister Rabbitte said:
This is a great day for Portumna to have the Connacht Harbour open, which is a major uplift for the town, and the wider region. The redevelopment forms part of the Shannon Tourism Masterplan and I thank Waterways Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and the Local Authority for their collaboration in getting this project complete, as I know it was a massive undertaking and one which I was keen to see complete.
and she continued:
This €2.8 million redevelopment of Connaught Harbour and blueway extension are transformative projects. This revitalization not only enhances the beauty and functionality of our waterfront but also serves as a beacon for tourists, drawing visitors from near and far.
Minister Rabbitte with Dick Ridge, Podumna Village, Councillor Ivan Canning, Cathaoirleach Albert Dolan, Eoin Lynch, Eanna Rowe, Operations Controller, Waterways Ireland
and she continued:
By creating a vibrant and inviting space, we are poised to boost local tourism, invigorate our economy, and showcase the unique charm of our community. I look forward to a future where our harbours, walkways, and blueway add to the town’s thriving tourism industry.
Minister Rabbitte with Eanna Rowe, Operations Controller, Waterways Ireland, Cathaoirleach Albert Dolan, and representatives from Waterways Ireland and Galway Rural Development
and Minister Rabbitte concluded:
This project is a testament to the State’s commitment to sustainable development and community well-being. The new amenities and improved infrastructure will provide residents and visitors alike with unparalleled opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
A wedding ceremony on Lough Derg
I’m confident that this redevelopment will foster a sense of pride and belonging in Portumna, while also attracting new businesses and investments to the town.
