The Discover Carrick-on-Shannon initiative is part of a broader campaign to develop and promote Ireland’s Lakelands and Inland Waterways which aims to significantly boost visitor numbers to the Lakeland regions over the next three years.
Pictured above: the Organising Committee
Speaking at the launch Martina Bromley, Acting General Manager, Fáilte Ireland in the North West, said “We hope the event will give local people a greater awareness of what there is to see and do in their community and therefore, allow them to act as ambassadors for their region with both domestic and overseas visitors. They may even consider inviting friends to join them for the weekend to sample the delights of Carrick-on-Shannon and its environs.
Ireland’s Lakelands and Inland Waterways can provide unique experiences for everyone. The natural environment provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural and outdoor activities.”
A range of product offerings will be on display including visitor attractions, live music and activities. Locals will be able to enjoy a vintage car display, a sub-aqua demonstration, boat trips, canoeing sessions and pottery workshops with the Leitrim Design House. Events are being co-ordinated locally via a steering group formed from representatives of local businesses and chaired by Gerry Faughnan, President of Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber of Commerce.
According to Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing and Communications at Waterways Ireland: “The Discover Carrick-on-Shannon Day will highlight to locals and tourists the incredible diversity and quality of attractions, activities and entertainments in this area. It will enhance the capacity of everyone to promote Carrick-on-Shannon nationally and internationally and is expected to have an impact on tourist numbers and the local economy.”
This year a Discover Carrick-on-Shannon Colouring Competition is running in the lead up to the event inviting all local schoolchildren to discover their very own Carrick-on-Shannon. The closing date for entries is 19th June 2009 and all entries will be on display in the Dock and the Market Yard in Carrick-on-Shannon on 28th June from 2-6pm.
Gerry Faughnan, President of Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber of Commerce welcomed the event: “I am absolutely delighted with the range and scope of events that has been organised. I believe they will showcase all that Carrick has to offer in a very positive light. I would like to sincerely thank all the businesses and individuals who have responded so enthusiastically to our call to get involved.
I would also like to thank the hardworking committee who have put so much energy and effort in putting this unique programme together. We would urge everyone to come along to Carrick on Sunday, June 28th and enjoy the free entertainment.”
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Francis Gilmartin, Vice Chairperson of Leitrim County Council said “Discover Carrick-on-Shannon Day is an ideal opportunity to showcase the facilities and attractions Carrick on Shannon has to offer to both the local community and the visitors to the area, Leitrim County Council is delighted to support this event.”