Conor D. McGuinness
Question:486. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if local authorities have requested increases in ORIS funding; and if so, the amount [52372/26]
View answerThursday, 9 July 2026
Questions (486)
Written answers
The 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 the scheme was established, funding of over €154 million has been approved for more than 2,000 outdoor amenities across the country. These new and improved facilities are a vital outlet for both residents and tourists.
The level of funding provided in the estimates process for ORIS has increased from €12 million in 2021 to €17 million this year.
In terms of the level of funding for individual projects, approvals are in the form of maximum allocation amounts for each project. Any cost overruns beyond the allocated amount must be met by the applicant or through project modifications that reduce the costs without significantly impacting the project.