Ireland’s Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has announced €16.5 million in funding for 63 outdoor recreation projects nationwide, strengthening the country’s walking trails, cycleways, water-based amenities, and mountain access routes. The investment is part of the government’s Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) and directly supports the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy, Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors.
Nationwide Funding Boost
Speaking on Clare Island, Co. Mayo, on 3 November 2025, Minister Dara Calleary TD confirmed that 63 projects across every county will benefit from the latest round of ORIS funding. The €16.5 million allocation falls under Measures 2 and 3 of the scheme, which provide up to €500,000 per project for the repair, upgrade, and development of strategic outdoor infrastructure.
Examples of Funded Projects
Among the projects announced are:
- Cavan (Kingscourt): Development of a greenway hub with car parking and seating – €500,000
- Cork (Durrus): Phase II of walkway linking to Durrus Village – €196,395
- Donegal (Carrigart to Downings): Final phase of walkway completion – €500,000
- Louth (Boyne Greenway): Enhancement and extension of the North Bank, including resurfacing and lighting – €500,000
- Mayo (Clare Island): Upgrade of the Clewbay bike trail for universal accessibility – €500,000
- Waterford (Villierstown): Quay enhancement for water-based recreation – €200,000
- Wicklow (Djouce Mountain): Trail construction and habitat restoration – €445,500
Building on Previous Investment
This announcement follows 221 projects funded in August 2025, bringing the total allocation under the 2024/2025 ORIS programme to €25.27 million—the largest approval to date. Since 2020, ORIS has supported hundreds of projects, with an average of 235 new outdoor classes and facilities opening annually.
Ministerial Statements
Minister Calleary described the investment as a “significant boost” for communities and tourism:
“This funding will enhance recreational spaces that act as vital social hubs while also strengthening Ireland’s tourism offering. From walking and cycling trails to upland paths and water-based amenities, these projects deliver directly on the objectives of Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors.”
He highlighted the Clare Island project as an example of collaboration between local stakeholders, extending the Clewbay bike trail further into the island.
Strategic Vision
The funding aligns with the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy, which aims to make Ireland a leader in outdoor activity tourism while ensuring communities have access to safe, sustainable recreational spaces. Minister Calleary also confirmed the publication of the Second Progress Report on the strategy, outlining advances in trail development, accessibility, and environmental protection.
Outlook
With this latest round of funding, the government continues to prioritise rural development, community wellbeing, and sustainable tourism. The projects announced are expected to enhance Ireland’s reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation while providing long-term social and economic benefits.
Source: Department of Rural and Community Development – Gov.ie
Minister-Dara-Calleary-with-Mayo-Association-of-Philadelphia-Picture-by-Jeff-Meade.
