Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2026
334. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will consider providing funding for the local improvement scheme on a multi annual basis; to ensure local authorities who administer the scheme can deliver them in a more efficient and cost-effective manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38345/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) facilitates the enhancement of non-public rural roads and laneways, which are generally not maintained by local authorities. This scheme was reintroduced by my Department in 2017, and since then, over €201 million has been allocated to local authorities for the LIS.
In February this year and following Budget 2026, I was pleased to confirm initial LIS funding of €17.55m. This represents an increase in base funding announced in previous years and reflects my ongoing commitment to enhancing rural infrastructure.
Since 2017 County Laois has been allocated a total of €6.36 million in LIS funding. This includes the 2026 allocation of €469,530. Up to December 2025, 141 roads have been completed in Laois under the scheme.
The Department has now received 2026 LIS priority lists from local authorities, including Laois. All local authorities have engaged pro-actively with my officials and the priority lists have now been approved to proceed to works. Broadly, local authorities have indicated that this is in line with their work schedules and confirmed that road improvements are usually completed during the months of April to October, weather permitting.
The manner in which LIS is managed has resulted in the effective use of annual budgets across the country. My officials will continue to work closely with local authorities to ensure the process is as efficient as possible and to ensure that all 2026 funding is fully utilised.
Finally, I will continue to monitor my Department's capital expenditure as the year progresses to identify any savings that emerge so that they can be allocated to schemes like the LIS.
