Offaly participants who graduated from Fáilte Ireland’s Tourism Learning Network Programme were, l-r, Johannes Bulfin, Watershed Fly Fishing; Janine Wilson, Visit Birr; Kim Darby, Croghan Hill Glamping; Richard Kennedy, Sloe Blossom Farm Ltd; Lisa Kealey, BnM; Anne Davis, Bellefield House & Gardens; Olivia Roxby, Bellefield House & Gardens; Mary Hensey, EU Just Transition Tourism Activator, Offaly County Council; Fiona Flanagan, Red Sheds Villa.

Offaly professionals graduate from Fáilte Ireland programme

Published: Mon 22 Jun 2026, 6:34 PM

A number of Offaly participants were amongst 70 tourism professionals who graduated from Fáilte Ireland’s Tourism Learning Network Programme at a special event held in Burtown House, Athy, Co. Kildare.

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 the programme was about "backing people, strengthening the region’s visitor offering and helping to grow local economies.”

CEO at Fáilte Ireland, Caroline Bocquel, said the programme "marked 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," she added.

Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, Clare Bannon said the programme has "played an important role in building professional capacity across the tourism sector in the wider Midlands region".

"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," she stated.