Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 October 2025
128. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to outline his ambitions to support the rural road network under the LIS scheme in Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55309/25]
View answerThe Local Improvement Scheme or LIS is a key support to rural communities in improving non-public rural roads and laneways that are not typically maintained by local authorities. Since 2017, the government has provided almost €184 million to local authorities under the Scheme.
On 7th August last, I was delighted to announce €14 million in additional funding for the 2025 scheme. This brings the total amount invested in LIS in 2025 to €30 million.
Cork County Council’s original allocation for 2025 was €1.163m and, following the August 2025 additional allocation, it now had a full year allocation of €2.331m. This is the second highest allocation nationally. My officials have engaged closely with local authorities to ensure this LIS funding is fully utilised.
I am committed to continuing the Local Improvement Scheme. The 2026 Scheme is expected to be launched early next year and the provisions will be reviewed in advance to ensure it is managed as fairly and efficiently as possible. This will allow local authorities to plan and manage their resources in an effective manner. Details of the 2026 LIS, including county allocations and the scheme outline, will be circulated to local authorities and published on the department's website.
