• First EU Just Transition Fund programme under Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme fully complete

[17 June 2026] Over 70 tourism professionals graduated from Fáilte Ireland’s Tourism Learning Network Programme at a special event held in Burtown House, Athy, Co. Kildare, last week.
Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund, the programme marks the successful completion of the first initiative delivered under Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

The Tourism Learning Network Programme was designed to build the capabilities of tourism businesses across the midlands, supporting their sustainable development and helping to future-proof their operations. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to benefit from a fully funded programme of tailored professional development, enhancing their tourism skillsets and supporting the transition from employment in peat and electricity production to careers in the tourism industry.

Over two years, the programme brought together a diverse mix of tourism businesses and stakeholders from across the region to develop essential skills in planning, digital development, sustainability and accessibility, while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD said:

“I want to congratulate everyone involved in the Tourism Learning Network Programme. This practical investment has been provided as part of the EU Just Transition Fund, supporting tourism businesses, building local skills and creating real opportunities for communities across the Midlands. It’s about backing people, strengthening the region’s visitor offering and helping to grow local economies.”

CEO at Fáilte Ireland, Caroline Bocquel, said:

“This marks an important milestone for both the participants of the Tourism Learning Network Programme and the wider tourism sector across the Midlands. While investment in tourism infrastructure is critical, it is the people behind these businesses and their skills, ambition and commitment that will determine long-term success.

Through this programme, participants have developed practical capabilities in strategic planning, digital development, sustainability and accessibility – all of which are now essential to remain competitive and meet evolving visitor expectations. By embedding more sustainable, inclusive and strategic practices, they are strengthening not only their own businesses but also the resilience and appeal of the Midlands as a destination.

We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with local tourism businesses and communities, strategic partners, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to deliver further regenerative tourism projects that will help build a more resilient, competitive and vibrant future for the Midlands.”

Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, Clare Bannon said:

“We’re so pleased to see the successful completion of the Tourism Learning Network Programme, and to recognise the dedication of all those who have taken part. This programme has played an important role in building professional capacity across the tourism sector in the wider Midlands region, equipping participants with the skills needed to adapt, diversify and grow.

As a key part of Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, supported by the EU Just Transition Fund, this initiative is helping to create new opportunities for employment while strengthening the region’s visitor economy. It also forms part of a wider suite of complementary actions designed to support communities in transitioning towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

The Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly is proud to support initiatives such as this, which are empowering local businesses and individuals to play an active role in shaping the long-term development of tourism across the region.”