Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, has announced a significant expansion of Connemara National Park.

Minister O'Sullivan made the announcement while visiting the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) team to turn the sod on extensive works to upgrade, improve and expand the walking trails in the park, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.

The purchase by the NPWS of an additional 249ha of land located within the townland of Tievebaun, Co. Galway increases the size of Connemara National Park by over 12% from 2,055ha, to 2,304ha.

This acquisition is described the most significant addition to the park since it was first opened to the public in 1980.

As part of NPWS's partnership with Fáilte Ireland there will be a multi-million-euro investment in the walking trail network at the park.

Minister O'Sullivan said: “Connemara National Park is a very special place for nature, for the community and our cultural heritage.

"This acquisition by the state is a sign of our enduring commitment to preserve Connemara’s unique natural heritage.

"The internationally important habitats located within this site will be protected for visitors, for wildlife and for future generations to enjoy," he added.

Today’s sod turning marks the first phase of a wider development in the area being delivered by the NPWS, in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland.

It marks the beginning of phase one of development aimed at doubling the park's trail network from just under 8km to over 16km across two key locations, the existing Letterfrack campus and a new entrance at the previously inaccessible area of the park at Mweelin. 

Director general of NPWS, Niall Ó Donnchú said: “We believe that visitor experience can co-exist in harmony with nature conservation when it is undertaken in a sustainable way."