#Angling - Ballinrobe & District Anglers have successfully completed a project which will greatly improve access to a popular angling destination at Cushlough Bay in Co Mayo.
The project was funded by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) via the National Strategy for Angling Development (NSAD) Fund. The location at Cushlough Bay, off Lough Mask near Ballinrobe is used by domestic and visiting international anglers alike.
The project saw improvement works completed on the angling club’s carpark to make it safe and accessible for anglers. This included resurfacing and realigning of the carpark, as well as the provision of security fencing around the perimeter.
The club was awarded €21,263 from IFI to carry out the work. The funding was granted in June, after the club completed its corporate governance requirements, with the project at completion stage just a few weeks later.
IFI granted support under its National Strategy for Angling Development (NSAD) which aims to ensure that Ireland’s fish stocks and angling infrastructure are protected and enhanced for the economic value and recreational benefit which they offer to communities across Ireland.
The fisheries resource is worth €836 million to the Irish economy annually and supports upwards of 11,000 jobs, often in rural and peripheral communities.
In addition to the funding provided under the NSAD, Ballinrobe & District Anglers and the World Cup Trout Fly Championship Committee provided €6,641 to upgrade the slipway as an extra part of the project.
Sean Canney TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the inland fisheries sector, said: “Investment in angling access and infrastructure is a key component of the current round of NSAD funding and the Ballinrobe club has demonstrated that, working in partnership with Inland Fisheries Ireland and underpinned by significant grant aid, valuable community driven projects will be delivered.
“The project will be of major benefit to local, visiting and international anglers and will define Cushlough Bay as a top class venue for social and competitive angling and can assist in attracting international events.”
Suzanne Campion, head of business development at IFI, added: “Accessibility and safety is a priority if our inland fisheries are to be enjoyed by everyone. I am delighted that this project is complete in Ballinrobe at an important angling location which has both recreational and socio economic benefit to the local community.”
Kevin Egan, chair of Ballinrobe & District Anglers, commented: “This is an outstanding project which we are delighted to complete. The funding from the National Strategy for Angling Development allowed us to upgrade the parking facility which will be of benefit for local anglers and tourist anglers.”
