Walking tourism could create 200 jobs, study finds

Two hundred new jobs and an €8m spin-off for the economy of West Cork would result from even a modest investment in the region’s walking tourism, according to a report to be launched this week.

The study says that although the region’s west coast has the attributes required for a successful hub for walking tourism which could facilitate both domestic and overseas visitors, it is under-exploited in comparison with other areas of outstanding natural beauty, both nationally and internationally.

However, a local development group has declared that it is prepared to invest around €1m in the sector within the next 18 months if Cork County Council and Bord Fáilte, as well as local communities and private business, come on board.