From:Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has announced funding of €3.7 million to support offshore island communities.

A capital funding programme of €2,740,509 has been approved to four Local Authorities for upgrading works including resurfacing public roads, upgrading piers/slipways, coastal protection and helipads. The Local Authorities in each county will work with the island communities to deliver these upgrades.

In addition to the capital funding, current funding of €1 million is being provided to support community development organisations on the islands, including dedicated support for Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann (the Irish Islands Federation) and the local development companies on the non-Gaeltacht islands of Mayo, Galway and Cork. This funding represents an average increase of 4.5% on 2025.

Announcing the funding, Minister Calleary said:

“This investment in our island communities demonstrates the Government’s commitment to implementing Our Living Islands, the Government’s policy for our islands.

“The capital works programme supports essential upgrades and repairs to basic infrastructure and improve access for island residents and visitors alike.

“Community Development Companies on the islands play a vital role in the delivery of daily services and projects within their own communities. I am delighted to provide additional support to enable them continue with this important work and plan for the future.”

The funding announced today is in addition to the €35 million Inis Oírr pier extension project in Co. Galway, which is currently under construction and scheduled to be completed at the end of 2027.

Separately, ringfenced funding of €550,000 is also provided for the Local Improvements Scheme (LIS) on the islands. LIS is a scheme aimed at upgrading rural roads and laneways.

Minor capital works programme announced today:

Community Development Funding announced today:

Local development companies on Gaeltacht islands are supported by the Department via Údarás na Gaeltachta.