An Taoiseach Enda Kenny T.D. today officially opened the Rehins Wood Neighbourwood project, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.

The project, a development of a series of forest walks and car park, is a partnership between Coillte, Mayo County Council with Forestry Service funding. The Taoiseach also unveiled a plaque to the late Minister of State for Forestry Mr. Shane McEntee TD.

Officially opening the facilities An Taoiseach said: "This fantastic amenity is the result of a combined effort – it shows what people and organisations can do when they work together towards a common goal. The local community, Mayo County Council, Coillte and the NeighbourWood Scheme operated by the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine did great work in creating this wonderful facility."

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Rehins Wood, owned by Coillte, dates back to the 1840's and the project is aimed at increasing accessibility for recreational users. In keeping with Coillte’s core purpose to enrich lives locally, nationally and globally through the innovative and sustainable management of natural resources, there will be emphasis on the ecological interpretation of woodland and local history.

Gerard Murphy, Managing Director of Coillte Forest said: "Coillte's belief is that the development of the Rehins Wood Neighbourwood Project will bring more users to the area and contribute to wellbeing of the community. Coillte along with our partners in this project, Mayo County Council, would like to thank An Taoiseach for taking the time to officially open this enhanced forest. This is the type of project we are involved in across the country as we deliver on our commitment to provide places for people to enjoy nature."

(CD/GK)