Almost €1 million has been set aside to support and improve around 446 walking trails across the country. This was announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, on 10 August, 2022.
Some of the walking trails subject to grant funding include The East Clare Way in Co. Clare, Beara Way in Co. Cork and Kerry, Leitrim Way in Co. Leitrim, Land of the Giants in Co. Mayo, The Blessington Greenway in Co. Wicklow and Bluestack Way in Co. Donegal.
The initiative will see grants of €1,000 to €3,000 provided to 175 community groups responsible for managing the trails throughout rural Ireland. This will be used to maintain and improve applicable local trails and to promote its use to visitors.
These Community Trail Management Organisations are registered with Sport Ireland and work in partnership with the local authority, Coillte and the Local Development Company (LDC) in maintaining their local trails.
Minister Humphreys said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the community groups, the landowners and everyone else involved in the development and maintenance of these outdoor recreation facilities for their all hard work and commitment to their community.”
“Our walkways, trails and greenways are an integral feature of Rural Ireland. This new initiative is all about keeping these trails in top condition and supporting their use by both domestic and international visitors.”
See the list of trails eligible to apply for funding here.