MEETING WITH MINISTERS

Meeting with Ministers
The unceasing search for funding and assistance to help the Cabragh Wetlands Trust took a new twist recently. Following contacts with Michael Lowry T.D., meetings were arranged with Ministers Eamon O Cuiv and John Gormley. Thanks to the Tipperary Enterprise Board, we were able to source advice on the content of a PowerPoint presentation from Lorraine Grainger, Consultant. Armed with the best material we could muster, four members of the Trust Committee travelled to Dail Eirann, and gave their presentation, which involved a brief history of the Trust and a summary of the work done so far, before moving on to our vision for the future of the wetlands and of the Centre.
For obvious reasons both Ministers were extremely busy, but even so we were given generous time to make our case. Both Ministers were very impressed with the project, and especially the work done over the years by a small group of volunteers. Minister O Cuiv was very positive and is looking into how we can best source support for the next phase of development. Minister Gormley noted that the Cabragh Wetlands are a designated SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and NHA (National Heritage Area). He was very impressed by the rich biodiversity of the wetlands and promised to look into how he can best support our forward development. We are greatly encouraged by Minister O Cuiv’s remark that “this is the kind of project we want to support”.
Special thanks must go to Michael Lowry T.D. for his time and interest, and also his enthusiasm for what the Cabragh Wetlands Trust is about. His availability to meet us, and his attendance at both ministerial appointments is much appreciated. Though this is a difficult time to be seeking funds for anything, we remain positive.