Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2026
1276. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to significantly increase the funding allocation to County Kerry for local improvement schemes in 2026 in order to allow Kerry County Council to address the huge priority list/waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9972/26]
View answerThe Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) provides for the upgrade of non-public rural roads and laneways that are typically not maintained by local authorities. It was re-introduced by my Department in 2017. Since then, almost €184 million has been allocated to local authorities for LIS.
Since 2017, Kerry has been allocated a total of €11.56 million in LIS funding. This figure includes the allocation of €2.23 million for 2025. While the Department provides funding for the scheme, it is managed by local authorities, which are responsible for selecting and prioritising roads. This includes handling applications, prioritising eligible roads, scheduling works, and maintaining waiting lists.
The Programme for Government commits to providing additional funding for the LIS. €17 million in LIS funding was secured as part of Budget 2026. This marks an increase in the Scheme's base allocation compared to previous years.
My Department officials are in the process of reviewing the scheme. Details of the 2026 scheme, including county allocations and the scheme outline, will be circulated to local authorities and published on the Department's website as soon as these are finalised.
