Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
1288. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to introduce a budget that will allow a local improvement scheme roads (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34023/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 and since then, over €201 million has been allocated to local authorities for LIS.
In February, I was pleased to launch the 2026 scheme with funding of €17.55 million. Kerry County Council has been allocated €1.13 million, an increase on the initial funding allocated in 2025. This funding announcement brings the total allocated to Kerry County Council since 2017 to almost €12.7 million.
While the Department provides funding for the scheme, it is managed by local authorities, who are responsible for selecting and prioritising roads. This includes handling applications, prioritising eligible roads, scheduling works, and maintaining waiting lists.
Within this context, it is open to local authorities to decide on the level and nature of works to be undertaken and this includes repair works to roads. Given the existence of LIS, there are currently no plans to introduce a separate pothole repair scheme.
My officials have engaged with local authorities who have submitted their priority lists of roads and received approval for inclusion in the 2026 scheme. The scheme will be closely monitored to ensure funding is fully utilised and that as many road improvements as possible are completed under the scheme.
