Three county plan to boost tourism for ‘The Kingdom of Midhe'

A NEW tourism network is aiming to promote the many attractions of Meath, Cavan and Westmeath in a co-ordinated way.

As well as the attraction of the Boyne Valley, it intends to promote the many important historic site in the region such as Loughcrew, Tailteann, the Hill of Uisneach, the heritage town of Kells and Fore.

An impressive presentation on ‘The Kingdom of Midhe' the ancient fifth province was given at the latest meeting of the group, in Athboy last week.

The presentation was put together by Bartle Darcy, Chris Murphy and Jason Fionnain and was superbly presented by Bartle Darcy, who has 20 years’ experience working with Gardens Ireland, Heritage Ireland, Mid-Ireland Tourism, Meath Gardens and Meath and Westmeath Tourism.

Deputy Johnny Guirke who has set up the group said he was delighted that there continues to be good attendance and interaction at meetings.

"Once again I’m amazed at the brilliant turnout for our third meeting which was held in the Darnley Lodge Hotel. We had 25 people in attendance at the meeting, from all types of tourism sectors - a tour guide, a hotelier, a café, a transport company and those with just an interest in tourism."

Kells historian, Chris Murphy said the group is in its early stages but the aim is to promote the areas many important sites.

"We have some amazing attractions and we want to promote them in a coordinated way.

"We have the Hill of Uisneach which is as important as Tara, Tailteann where the Aonach Tailteann was held, the heritage town of Kells, Loughcrew and Fore. There is so much to promote in this area."

Deputy Guirke said they would be linking the three counties together.

"When visitors come to the area, they aren't concerned with county boundaries. We will be working with Failte Ireland and the tourism officers in the three county councils.

"We will form a committee at the next meeting, and commit to a group name that will be the brand name going forward. Bringing in Jason Fionnain’s experience will also be key for the new tourism group as he will create many videos and photos which will give us a starting foundation for us to build this network in Cavan, Meath and Westmeath.

"We hope to create a presence online through social media platforms, online maps, website, an app and this will hopefully attract tourists from across the world.

"I have said many times that we have so many hidden gems in Cavan, Meath and Westmeath and if we can take a united front with this network group, we will succeed," he concluded.

"The group have shown enthusiasm for this project, and I am encouraging others to get involved and be part of something new within their area."

We will continue to work with all Tourism bodies and local businesses to make this a success.