From:Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, was today (Friday, 12 June 2026) in Castlebar to officially open the Lough Lannagh Dog Park.

The purpose-built facility, which was awarded €100,000 in funding under the Community Recognition Fund (CRF) 2024, will provide a safe, enclosed space for dogs to exercise and socialise, while offering a welcoming environment for pet owners and families.

CRF was introduced in 2023 to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. To date, €100 million has been allocated to support cities, towns, and villages across the country.

Speaking at the opening, Minister Calleary said:

“The amenities here in Lough Lannagh are first class and I am delighted to be here today to officially open them to the public.

“I know the Dog Park and further enhancements that have taken place will be a valuable addition to the area. These works will complement other facilities in Castlebar, many of which are also funded by my department and will be a welcome addition to the existing community spaces.”

The Minister concluded by saying:

“It is deeply rewarding to see such investment deliver meaningful change in our towns and villages. With the delivery of outstanding projects like these, I can confidently say we are delivering on the promises made in Our Rural Future, the Government’s rural policy.”

The Community Recognition Fund (CRF) was introduced in 2023 to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. €100 million was allocated to support cities, towns, and villages across the country.

Under the 2023 iteration of the scheme, Mayo County Council were allocated over €2.3 million towards 48 projects. Under the 2024 iteration of the scheme, Mayo County Council were again allocated over €2.4 million towards a further 33 projects.