Monaghan — June 3, 2026 — Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD has announced the 2026–2027 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), with €20 million available to support outdoor recreation projects across Ireland.
The scheme, now in its tenth year, has already invested over €150 million in more than 2,000 projects, enhancing trails, lakes, rivers, beaches, forests, and upland areas. Speaking at the opening of new recreational facilities on Black Island, Lough Muckno, which received €500,000 in funding in 2022, Minister Calleary emphasized the importance of outdoor recreation for both wellbeing and rural economic growth.
Under the new framework, funding will be available across three measures:
- Up to €40,000 for small-scale repairs, maintenance, promotion, and marketing.
- Up to €200,000 for medium-scale upgrades and new trail or amenity development.
- Up to €500,000 for strategic large-scale projects.
An enhanced Project Development Measure (PDM) will also support local authorities and development companies in preparing shovel-ready projects for future funding rounds. Special provisions have been introduced for Gaeltacht and island communities, including additional applications and targeted support for equestrian trail development.
Applications are now open, with deadlines set for September 25 (Measure 1 and PDM) and December 15 (Measures 2 and 3). Minister Calleary encouraged community groups to work with local authorities and development companies to bring forward proposals.
“This funding package will continue to deliver for the outdoor recreation sector, supporting projects that benefit communities, promote wellbeing, and drive economic activity in rural Ireland,” he said.
