A number of recreational amenities and facilities have been officially opened in parks across Co Monaghan.
A quality freshwater bathing site, as well as the upgrading of walks, picnic and seating areas, changing facilities and toilets, have been provided in Hollywood Park, which is located just south of Scotstown.
Meanwhile, at Dartrey Park, near Cootehill, upgrade works included informal play spaces, interpretation and seating, and improved accessibility measures.
Both projects received funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, totalling €670,000.
Further funding of €150,000 was awarded under the Community Recognition Fund for an extension to Rossmore Forest Park playground, located just outside Monaghan Town.
These works include the installation of play equipment suitable for older children, safety surfacing, additional car parking and accessible picnic areas.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary was in Monaghan for the official opening of the facilities.
The minister's visit also coincided with the launch of the PEACEPLUS Action Plan for Co Monaghan.
The PEACEPLUS Action Plan is a local community initiative funded by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), aimed at promoting peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties.
Plans for each of the 17 local authorities across the programme area are to be drawn up with their focus centred around three core themes, including local community regeneration and transformation, thriving and peaceful communities, and building respect for all cultural identities.
In a statement, Mr Calleary said: "Investment in our outdoors is a key priority for Government. Through funds such as the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme funding is being provided to develop and enhance these outdoor facilities. Activity in the outdoors is so important not just for our physical health but also for our mental wellbeing.
"I want to thank my predecessor in the department, former Minister Heather Humphreys, who ensured that schemes such as this were available and accessible to communities.
"My department also has a strategic partnership in place with Coillte, which is investing €3 million every year to develop and maintain Coillte’s recreational offering across over 250 sites throughout Ireland.
This is facilitating high-quality recreational access in every corner of the country, including at Dartrey and Rossmore," the minister concluded.
