The Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and Comhairle na Tuaithe has hosted the first National Outdoor Recreation Conference in Sligo.

The conference supported the delivery of Embracing Ireland's Outdoors Ireland's National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027. It facilitated networking opportunities with national and county organisations involved in outdoor recreation, offered a platform for discussions on national outdoor recreation policy and provided insights into the latest developments in Ireland's outdoor recreation sector.

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Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, Ireland's National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027, was collaboratively developed with Comhairle na Tuaithe (the Countryside Council). This cross-Government strategy, guided by stakeholders and public input, aims to support the sustainable growth of Ireland's outdoor recreation sector. Led by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Sport Ireland, with oversight from Comhairle na Tuaithe, the strategy sets the stage for future development and enhancement of outdoor activities across the country.

Embracing Ireland's Outdoors will ensure that there is a joined up and coordinated approach to deliver maximum impact from the significant investment in the sector and to build on the natural advantages in place.

The Strategy additionally seeks to increase outdoor participation, particularly among youth and marginalised communities, while promoting responsible outdoor enjoyment. It emphasises improved planning and development of outdoor recreation infrastructure to uphold environmental protection and adhere to best practices in landscape and habitat management.