Dublin, 10 October 2025 — The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has confirmed a new round of investment under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), allocating €20.5 million to 30 projects nationwide.
The funding, announced at the opening of the Shackleton Experience in Athy, will support initiatives designed to combat dereliction, enhance public spaces, and transform vacant or historic buildings into community and cultural hubs.
Key Projects Funded
Examples of approved projects include:
- Roscrea, Co. Tipperary — €971,000 for a multi-use community facility and town centre enhancements.
- Moate, Co. Westmeath — €780,000 for town centre improvements, including universal access and landscaping.
- Rosslare, Co. Wexford — €1 million for the Rosslare Sustainable Tourism Experience, linking the harbour and strand with new civic spaces.
- Swinford, Co. Mayo — €870,000 for a new public space to host markets and festivals.
- Skibbereen, Co. Cork — €772,000 to develop a conservation plan for the Old Steam Mill as a famine story and exhibition centre.
- Rosses Point, Co. Sligo — €558,000 for a community boat park to strengthen tourism and maritime industries.
Minister’s Statement
Minister Calleary described the announcement as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen rural economies and communities:
“These projects represent the ambition of Our Rural Future and will have a truly transformational impact across the country. They will make our towns and villages better places to live, work, and raise families, while also driving economic growth and tourism.”
He added that the RRDF, a €1 billion fund under Project Ireland 2040, has already supported 243 projects worth €791 million since its establishment.
Strategic Focus
The newly funded projects fall under Category 2 of the RRDF, which provides resources for planning, design, and technical work to prepare large-scale initiatives for full delivery under future funding rounds.
The programme places strong emphasis on:
- Heritage and cultural renewal
- Tourism and enterprise development
- Public realm improvements
- Community facilities and creative spaces
Outlook
The government views the investment as a cornerstone of its rural development strategy, with the aim of reducing regional disparities, revitalising town centres, and fostering sustainable growth.
While the announcement has been welcomed by local authorities and community groups, the Department confirmed that unsuccessful applicants will receive feedback to strengthen future proposals.
Minister-Dara-Calleary-Picture-by-Jeff-Meade
Sources: Department of Rural and Community Development; Government of Ireland (RRDF Programme).
