Three trails in County Galway have been selected for investment in the Government’s latest Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS ) funding round.
Just over €811,000 has been awarded to two pieces of outdoor sports infrastructure in Galway, while other counties have received multiples of this figure for hiking, cycling and boating routes in a €16.5m national allocation.
Projects in Galway to benefit from the funding include €245,700 for the extension of walkways in Rinville Park, Oranmore, and €65,390 for repairs and upgrades to the walking track at Leitir Mucu, near Casla, in Connemara; and €500,000 investment in 1.5km of trackway for Bealach Portaigh Seanna Mhac in south Connemara.
Fianna Fáil’s Senator Anne Rabbitte confirmed the Galway tranche of funding after Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, visited Clare Island, Co Mayo, to confirm a €500,000 investment in the Clew Bay cycle path.
“Today’s announcement represents a real investment in our communities. The projects that will benefit are at the heart of local life and provide vital recreational and social spaces,” said Sen Rabbitte.
The Portumna-based senator stressed that walking and cycling trails need regular maintenance.
“This funding will ensure that these facilities remain in excellent condition throughout the year. They are places where communities gather and connect, and it is essential that we protect and sustain them so they can be enjoyed for generations to come.
“This is a great opportunity to remind everyone of the wonderful outdoor amenities we have here in Galway. We should make the most of them and continue to cherish them. This funding will help ensure that many more people can enjoy these spaces for years to come.”
Galway West TD, John Connolly, welcomed the investment, saying that this funding is a real boost to these communities.
“By improving and enhancing these outdoor spaces, we are encouraging more people to get out, be active and engage with their community,” he said.
