Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has launched a new round of funding under the National Barrier Mitigation Scheme, building on the programme’s success earlier this year when €13.6 million was awarded to 103 projects nationwide. These projects addressed physical barriers in Irish waterways, including dams, culverts, and weirs, which impede the passage of fish.
The Barrier Mitigation Fund supports projects at all stages, from early planning and design to full construction and habitat restoration. Local authorities, water management agencies, local angling groups, and barrier owners are all encouraged to apply, with the aim of improving fish passage, restoring river connectivity, and enhancing biodiversity across Irish rivers and streams. The scheme is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Eligible projects include the removal or modification of old or unused weirs and sluices that block migratory fish such as salmon, sea trout, lamprey, or eel, as well as redundant culverts, fords, or dams that disrupt water flow and habitats. Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD emphasized that the programme supports natural fish movement while contributing to national conservation objectives, including the Water Framework Directive, Nature Restoration Plan, and the Habitats Directive for protected fish species.
Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley TD, highlighted the programme’s practical, on-the-ground impact in restoring river connectivity, improving water quality, and enhancing biodiversity. Hazel King, Head of the National Barrier Mitigation Programme, stressed that thousands of barriers across Ireland continue to fragment fish habitats and block natural sediment and water flow, underscoring the importance of continued investment in barrier mitigation.
Applications must be led by a State Agency or Local Authority, though individuals or other groups may apply with IFI acting as the lead agency following a successful Expression of Interest (EOI). Funding is available for all project stages, from planning and design to construction and handover, and all applications must be submitted via IFI’s funding portal. Submissions for this round are open until March 4th, 2026.
