€6 million worth of funding for the Sliabh Beagh Partnership has been allocated under the Shared Island Fund. The The Sliabh Beagh Partnership which Deputy Bennett herself was involved in prior to her election to the Dail, is a group that is made up of representatives of the three councils - Fermanagh Omagh, Monaghan and Mid Ulster, with the aim of working together for the benefit of the area. Sliabh Beagh is an upland blanket bog covering counties Monaghan, Fermanagh and Tyrone, there are also several scenic walking routes in the Sliabh Beagh area. The funding will see the development of connected cross-border walking, cycling and equestrian trails around Sliabh Beagh Mountain. Trailheads, wayfinding, and gateways are also included as well as new facilities.
The funding will also provide for an international marketing and development programme, including ad campaigns to promote the area as a tourist destination and maximise economic impact for the region. Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Cathy Bennett said she has worked towards funding for the Sliabh Beagh area since she was first elected to Monaghan County Council in 2012. Deputy Bennett who described the new development as "a great day in politics" hopes that the funding allocation will go towards promoting the Sliabh Beagh area to ensure that people nation-wide know how special it is;
Cllr Pauric Clerkin also paid tribute to the wider community of the Sliabh Beagh area following today's funding announcement:
