Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 October 2023
302. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the 2023 budget allocation for outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme within her Department; and the expected 2024 budget allocation for same. [45431/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 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. Since the launch of ORIS in 2016, funding of in excess of €106 million has supported more than 1,500 projects across the country.
I launched the 2023 Scheme on 1st June with an allocation of €16 million, an increase of €1 million on last year's scheme. The scheme is being delivered under four Measures. The deadline for applications under Measure 1 and the Project Development Measure has now passed and assessments are ongoing. The deadline for applications under Measure 2 and 3 is 27th October. Successful projects under the Project Development Measure will be announced in the coming weeks. Approvals under Measures 1, 2 and 3 will be announced in Quarter 1, 2024.
I'm pleased to confirm that I have secured an allocation of €16 million for next year's scheme as part of Budget 2024. This is a welcome investment that will support a range of outdoor recreation projects nationwide. I look forward to reviewing the scheme in anticipation of the launch next year.
