Lough Ree and Lanesborough showcase tourism potential at regional event
Building links between businesses and communities across the region
Press Release: Monday 29 June
The Lough Ree region was brought into focus at a recent successful tourism showcase event which welcomed over 50 tourism businesses, community groups and local leaders. The event was led by the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) Tourism Activators across Longford, Roscommon, Westmeath and East Galway under Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.
It highlighted the strong tourism offer across Lough Ree and helped to build links between businesses and communities across the region. Twelve Longford-based tourism enterprises took part. This was the third showcase event delivered by the Lough Ree tourism cluster since activity began in May 2025. The programme gave attendees a direct experience of the area. It included:
- an accessible Lough Ree “Access for All” boat tour with a virtual reality element
- a visit to Lough Ree Distillery
- a guided walking tour of Ballyleague and Lanesboro
- a visit to Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre
A networking lunch at St Faithleach’s GAA Clubhouse allowed participants to share ideas and build contacts. In the afternoon, Edel McWeeney Moran spoke about the National Famine Way and its future tourism potential. This prompted discussion on how the route can support wider regional tourism. The day concluded with an interactive networking and mapping session, where participants worked together to deepen connections and contribute to the development of a comprehensive Lough Ree tourism directory, paving the way for future collaboration and growth.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Gerry Hagan said, “The Lough Ree area is a key asset for County Longford. Events like this help local businesses to work together and present a strong, joined-up visitor experience. I welcome the support through the Just Transition Fund and encourage visitors to explore all that this region has to offer.”
Chief Executive of Longford County Council Paddy Mahon said, “This initiative shows how targeted investment and local leadership can support tourism growth in a practical way. By strengthening links between businesses and developing shared experiences, we are improving the visitor offer while supporting rural communities and jobs across the county.”
Michael Nevin, Head of Tourism and Economic Development, said, “It was encouraging to see such a strong turnout and a clear shared focus on the future of tourism in the Lough Ree region. The level of co-operation between businesses and communities shows what can be achieved when we work together. I want to acknowledge the work of the Tourism Activators in building this network.”
This showcase marks another significant milestone in harnessing the opportunities presented by the EU Just Transition Fund—driving sustainable tourism development, fostering regional collaboration, delivering sustainable regenerative networks and elevating the visitor experience across the Lough Ree area.
