Sport Ireland welcomes €16.5m investment in Ireland’s great outdoors

Sport Ireland welcomes the announcement today by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary that €16.5m will be invested to support 63 outdoor recreation projects across the country through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).  

 From walking trails and greenways to mountain paths and water-based amenities, this investment will enhance opportunities for communities and visitors to explore and enjoy Ireland’s natural landscapes — while supporting local tourism and wellbeing.  

Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May said: “This is a big step forward in delivering on the vision of Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy. Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors brings bring a cohesive and joined-up approach to the development of outdoor recreation infrastructure at both a national and county level. 

“Sport Ireland’s Local Sport Partnerships and National Governing Bodies for sport have played a key role in both participation opportunities and establishing partnerships. We look forward to continuing working alongside stakeholders in the outdoor sector.” 

ORIS funding has enabled numerous trails listed on the National Trails Register (managed by Sport Ireland) to undergo essential upgrades and improvements, addressing maintenance needs and enhancing user experience.  

The local trail management groups behind these projects play a vital role in sustaining and developing Irelands Outdoor recreation network, ensuring safe, accessible, and high-quality opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors. 

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) provides funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure. It also provides support for the necessary repair, maintenance, enhancement, or promotion of existing outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas across Ireland.  

The scheme supports outdoor recreation activities such as walking, trekking, cycling, kayaking, and hiking. It helps to make use of the resources of the countryside that contribute to healthy active lifestyles. It supports the economic and tourism potential of the area for both local communities and tourist visitors alike.