Taoiseach Brian Cowen has launched a new tax relief scheme for some tourism facilities in the mid-Shannon area.
The counties targeted by the scheme include counties Clare, Tipperary, Offaly, Galway, Roscommon and Westmeath.
Mr Cowen made the announcement at Birr Technology Centre this afternoon.
The scheme will be managed by Shannon Development and Fáilte Ireland.
Projects that are eligible include education tourism facilities such as visitor attractions, cultural facilities and wellness and self development facilities.
Facilities for watersports, outdoor activity centres, equestrian facilities and certain restaurants and cafés are eligible under the scheme.
Boat rental and inland cruising facilities, training for adventure centres and registered holiday camps also qualify.
The scheme is open to new projects and refurbishment of existing businesses.
The relief will be available by way of a capital allowance over seven years and the cap will be granted at a rate 15% for the first six years and 10% for the final year.
The qualifying period is three years, but applications must be made within one year of the start of the scheme.
Guidelines are available from the Department of Tourism, Shannon Development and Fáilte Ireland.
