Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
56. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht when the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme will reopen for applications in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23088/26]
View answerThe Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, or ORIS, is funded by my Department as part of the Rural Development Investment Programme.
It is an important contributor to “Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors”, our national outdoor recreation strategy. The scheme provides funding for the development and enhancement of outdoor recreational infrastructure such as walking trails, cycleways, blue ways, mountain access routes and open water facilities at rivers, lakes and beaches.
Since 2016, funding of over €154 million has been approved for more than 2,060 outdoor amenities across the country. These new and improved facilities are a vital outlet for both residents and tourists.
Applications under ORIS are administered, prioritised and submitted by local authorities, local development companies and state bodies to my Department for assessment.
Last week, my officials facilitated a workshop with key stakeholders nationwide to review delivery of the scheme and to explore opportunities for the next iteration of ORIS.
I expect to launch ORIS 2026/2027 with an increased budget allocation of €17 million in Quarter 2 of this year.
