Issue No. 21 | July 2023
South West Mayo Development Company CLG
In the Loop Newsletter
Introducing Ireland’s First Velorail
Exciting news! Mayo unveiled Ireland’s first Velorail in Kiltimagh last month. This innovative attraction combines an element of cycling and rail, making for a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore Mayo’s beautiful countryside at a leisurely pace. Suitable for all ages, book your Velorail adventure today and embark on a memorable journey through East Mayo’s rolling rural landscapes. www.velorail.ie
Social Enterprise Strategy 2023 – 2027 Launch
South West Mayo Development Company and Mayo North East LEADER Partnership held an event to officially launch the County Mayo Social Enterprise Strategy 2023 – 2027. The first strategy of its kind involved collaboration between South West Mayo Development Company, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership and Method Consulting. The objective of this strategic plan is to facilitate the expansion of the social enterprise sector across County Mayo and ensure the needs of the sector continue to be met. It aims to build awareness of the social enterprise sector, to strengthen social enterprises and achieve better policy alignment. Thank you to Michael Ring, T.D. for launching the strategy, Olivia Kitterick, Norita Clesham (SWMDC), Rita Hopkins (MNELP) and our local social enterprises for all their work in bringing this strategy to fruition.
Photographs by Alison Laredo
Planet Youth
A compelling image extracted from the latest Planet Youth 2022 report sheds light on the crucial link between how parents’ attitudes towards substance use are perceived and the subsequent impact on substance use. If you’re interested in exploring the comprehensive findings and upcoming webinars, you can visit the Planet Youth website at www.planetyouth.ie
Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail
We are thrilled to inform you that our Rural Recreation Officer, Martin Dillane has secured an additional €10,000 in funding for the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail. This funding will be allocated towards improving safety and enhancing the trail experience, specifically by rerouting a section at Knockraha. The planned enhancements include the relocation of an existing walkway bridge, the installation of new fencing, and the implementation of drainage systems.
Scouts Launch
The LEADER-funded 1st Mayo Scouts building was officially opened by Michael Ring T.D. in June. This building would not have been possible without the generousity Mayo County Council which made the land available to the group in the heart of Castlebar town The group presented SWMDC with a plaque to acknowledge the support of the SWMDC LEADER team in getting this project over the line.
Norita Clesham and Majella Mulchrone worked with the 1st Mayo Scouts volunteers to secure €300,000 funding for this ambitious community facility.
