Cavan-Monaghan TD Cathy Bennett has highlighted the importance of promoting tourism in border regions. Deputy Bennett who was selected by Sinn Fein to be spokesperson for the diaspora and tourism says the Sliabh Beagh area will be "high" on her agenda in Dail Eireann. Sliabh Beagh is an upland blanket bog covering counties Monaghan, Fermanagh and Tyrone, with the Sliabh Beagh Hotel located in the heart of Knockatallon, there are also several scenic walking routes in the Sliabh Beagh area.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Bennett has called for cross border funding to be allocated that would ensure that Sliabh Beagh is recognised as a "tourist destination" for the border area. Deputy Bennett also highlighted the work of the 'The Sliabh Beagh partnership' which she was involved with prior to her election to the Dail, the group is made up of representatives of the three councils - Fermanagh Omagh, Monaghan and Mid Ulster, with the aim of working together for the benefit of the area.
Describing the Sliabh Beagh area as a "hidden gem", Deputy Bennett says the border area should not be "left behind" when it comes to tourism opportunities: "We need to ensure that Sliabh Beagh is recognised as a tourism destination on the border, I think there's been a lapse, many go to the likes of Donegal, Cork and Kerry for vacations and we have been left behind but I will be at the forefront now making sure that tourism in this area of Ireland is pushed forward and ensure that we get as much as all of the other counties in the past."
