Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has announced a major investment of €16.5 million to support 63 outdoor recreation projects across Ireland under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). The announcement, made during his visit to Clare Island, Co. Mayo, marks a significant step in delivering the ambitions of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy – Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, which aims to enhance access to Ireland’s natural amenities for both residents and visitors.
The funding, provided under Measures 2 and 3 of the scheme, supports the strategic repair, maintenance, and development of recreational infrastructure with grants of up to €500,000 per project. The selected projects span all counties and include initiatives such as walking trails, cycleways, mountain access routes, and water-based recreation facilities. These developments are designed to improve community well-being, boost local economies, and strengthen Ireland’s tourism offering.
Among the projects receiving funding are the development of a greenway hub in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan (€500,000), the completion of the Carrigart to Downings walkway in Co. Donegal (€500,000), and enhancement of the Boyne Greenway in Co. Louth (€500,000). Other projects include upgrades to the Clewbay bike trail on Clare Island, Co. Mayo (€500,000), trail construction and habitat restoration at Djouce Mountain, Co. Wicklow (€445,500), and the enhancement of Villierstown Quay in Co. Waterford (€200,000).
Minister Calleary highlighted that these investments not only provide valuable recreational and social spaces for local communities but also contribute significantly to rural tourism and sustainable development. He noted that the projects demonstrate strong collaboration among community groups, local authorities, and state agencies, aligning with government efforts to promote outdoor recreation and active lifestyles.
The newly announced projects bring total ORIS funding for the 2024–2025 programme to over €25.27 million, the highest allocation since the scheme’s inception. This follows the announcement of 221 projects earlier in August, further strengthening Ireland’s outdoor recreation network.
Minister Calleary also confirmed the publication of the Second Progress Report for Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, detailing ongoing achievements under the national strategy. The report, now available on the Department’s website, showcases the government’s continued commitment to expanding and improving Ireland’s outdoor spaces for future generations.
