Gallagher says new €20million scheme is a 'major opportunity for Donegal'
An announcement of €20 million Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) for 2026–2027 could help the county to ‘develop its outdoor amenities further, strengthen tourism, and support local wellbeing’
Pat the Cope Gallagher TD says the announcement of the €20 million Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) for 2026–2027 presents a “major opportunity for Donegal.”
Deputy Gallagher, Fianna Fáil, believes the announcement by Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, is “a significant and timely investment in rural Ireland, with real potential for Donegal’s communities, coastline, islands, and uplands.”
“The renewed scheme, now in its 10th year, would help Donegal to develop its outdoor amenities further, strengthen tourism, and support local wellbeing,” Deputy Gallagher said.
“Donegal has some of the most spectacular natural assets in the country - from our mountains and lakes to our beaches, islands, and walking trails. This funding gives us the chance to enhance those amenities, support local jobs, and continue building Donegal’s reputation as a world‑class outdoor destination.”
Deputy Gallagher particularly welcomed the targeted supports for Gaeltacht and island communities, noting that Donegal has the largest Gaeltacht area in the country and a number of offshore islands that depend heavily on outdoor recreation and tourism.
The additional applications allowed for Gaeltacht and island areas are especially important for Donegal, and our offshore islands will now have greater access to funding that can make a real difference on the ground
Deputy Gallagher also highlighted the value of the new €50,000 pre‑development support for equestrian trails, saying Donegal is ideally placed to expand its offering in this area.
He said: “Equestrian tourism is a growing sector, and Donegal’s landscape is perfect for it. This new measure will help local authorities and community groups prepare high‑quality, shovel‑ready projects.”
Deputy Gallagher encouraged Donegal County Council, local development companies, and community groups to move quickly to prepare applications ahead of the deadlines: Measure 1 and Project Development Measure: September 25; Measures 2 and 3: December 15.
He added: “I would urge Donegal groups with ideas, whether for trail upgrades, new amenities, island access improvements, or outdoor tourism projects, to engage early with Donegal County Council and Údarás na Gaeltachta. This is a real chance to secure investment that will benefit our county for years to come.
Deputy Gallagher concluded by commending the volunteers and community organisations who have driven outdoor recreation projects across Donegal over the past decade.
He said: “None of this progress would be possible without the dedication of local volunteers, committees, and development groups. Their work has transformed outdoor recreation in Donegal, and this new funding will help them continue that important mission.”