- The scheme provides €20m in total funding.
- Applications close on 25 September for Measure 1.
- Measure 3 offers grants up to €500,000.
- Local authorities may submit additional island projects.
- The fund supports maintenance of existing amenities.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary has launched the 2026-2027 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme with €20m available. The scheme supports development and maintenance of outdoor projects in rural areas and targets Gaeltacht and island communities. Applications opened under four measures with different grant levels.
The Minister visited Black Island on Lough Muckno in County Monaghan for the launch and opened enhancements funded by over €500,000 in 2022. The scheme has invested over €150m in more than 2,000 projects since it began. Measure 1 offers up to €40,000 while Measure 3 provides up to €500,000 for larger projects.
Dara Calleary shared “I am delighted to be announcing this funding package today that will continue to deliver for the outdoor recreation sector. The projects we have delivered in the last ten years have not only supported our physical and mental wellbeing, but they have also been a driver of economic benefit in some of the most beautiful parts of our country. I am pleased to be providing greater flexibility to local authorities and local development companies to fund the pre development work required for new projects, including for equestrian trails, and also to be permitting an additional project application from one Gaeltacht or island area in each county as appropriate.”
