A REMOTE community in Co Cork has been presented with a prestigious European award for tourism development. The European Destination of Excellence award was presented to a local steering committee representing the Sheep’s Head peninsula.
Minister of State Martin Mansergh presented the award at a Bantry hotel, where the picturesque coastal area was recognised in the Tourism and Protected Areas category as part of an initiative funded and organised by Fáilte Ireland and the EU.
Sheep’s Head overcame challenges from four other Irish contenders – Ballyhoura (Limerick and Cork), Slieve League (Donegal), Erris (Mayo) and the Green Box (stretching into Leitrim, Cavan, Sligo, Donegal and Monaghan).
Mr Mansergh praised the efforts of the Sheep’s Head community “not only because the peninsula contains designated special areas of conservation under the habitats directive and special protection areas under the birds directive and nationally-protected natural heritage areas”.
“The winning quality is also partly composed of a love and dedication provided by the local community, who have, with a mixture of care and pride, preserved this local treasure for all of us.”
He singled out local farmers and landowners for their efforts in managing protected areas and supporting the development of Sheep Head’s Way, one of Ireland’s premier walking routes. He said it was vital to see amenities such as Sheep’s Head preserved.