Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, visited County Cavan today, Thursday 7 May 2026, to officially open several key community and recreation facilities. The projects, funded by his Department, aim to bolster local tourism, economic development, and community wellbeing.

The Minister's tour began at Dún an Rí Forest Park in Kingscourt to open a new Natural Play Area. Funded via the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, the project includes an upgraded landscape, a natural playground, and new connecting pathways. Minister Calleary praised the collaboration between Cavan County Council, Coillte, and the Department, noting the positive impact on local businesses and tourism.

The Minister also inaugurated the Killykeen Bridge project. Improvements to this iconic footbridge within the forest park have enhanced access for walkers, cyclists, and individuals with accessibility requirements.

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In Ballyjamesduff, the Minister performed the "turning of the sod" for the new Community and Enterprise Hub. This landmark project received a substantial allocation of over €7.65 million from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF). Once complete, the hub is expected to serve as a primary catalyst for the economic regeneration of the town and its surrounding areas.

In Cavan town, Minister Calleary opened significant enhancement works at Con Smith Park. The project involved:

• A comprehensive new masterplan for the park.

• A new coffee kiosk and wheelchair-accessible public toilets.

• Improved walking routes and accessibility.

• An extension to the playground featuring sensory play panels.

The final stop of the visit was in Ballyconnell for the opening of the renovated Market House. Supported by €1.2 million from the RRDF, the building has been transformed into a community remote working and tourism hub.

Minister Calleary commented: "The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund is making real and lasting impacts in communities right across the country, as it has here in Ballyconnell. I'm very lucky that I get to open projects like this where Government investment is clear to see and the benefits for the community are obvious."