Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 October 2023
358. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if projects in County Cavan are to receive funding under the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme project development measure 2023, and if so, if she will provide the details of same. [43291/23]
View answer362. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if projects in south County Monaghan are to receive funding under the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme project development measure 2023, and if so, if she will provide the details of same. [43295/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 358 and 362 together.
The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme is funded by my Department under Our Rural Future. The Scheme provides funding for the development and enhancement of outdoor infrastructure such as trails, walkways, cycleways, blueways and bridleways throughout rural Ireland. Earlier this year, I launched the 2023 ORIS with an allocation of €16 million, a €1 million increase on 2022.
Since the launch of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme in 2016, funding of in excess of €106 million has supported more than 1,500 projects across the country. This includes funding of nearly €4.1 million for 47 projects in County Cavan and funding of over €4.2 million for 63 projects in County Monaghan.
The deadline for applications under the 2023 Project Development Measure has now passed. Both Cavan and Monaghan County Councils have submitted two applications under this measure seeking funding of €72,194 and €100,000 respectively. The assessment process is currently ongoing with successful projects due to be announced in the coming weeks.
