From Department of Rural and Community Development
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Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has today (Wednesday, 12 October) announced funding of €787,500 for a series of capital works on the Aran Islands.
Minister Humphreys said the funding will be used to resurface a number of road projects on Inis Mór and Inis Oírr.
The investment is the latest tranche of capital funding for island infrastructure projects in 2022 alone.
Earlier this year, Minister Humphreys announced €2.3 million in grants for island projects in Donegal, Mayo and Cork.
Announcing the funding for the Aran Islands today, Minister Humphreys said:
“Today’s funding announcement represents great news for the communities of Inis Mór and Inis Oírr. By investing in these road projects, we will improve mobility on the islands for the benefit of the local community and visiting tourists. Supporting our islands is a key commitment under ‘Our Rural Future’, the government’s 5-year rural development policy. Today is further proof that we are delivering on that commitment – and demonstrates our desire to support our island communities.”
Up to 90% of the capital cost will be met by the Department of Rural and Community Development while Galway County Council will provide the balance of funding and manage the projects.
The projects to be funded by this allocation are set out below.
| Project | County | Grant |
| Inis Mór - Eoghanacht road resurfacing | Co. Galway | €315,000 |
| Inis Mór - Bóthar Ó Thuaidh resurfacing | Co. Galway | €297,000 |
| Inis Oírr -Resurfacing of L-5250 | Co. Galway | €175,500 |
It is unlikely that these works could be completed by the end of 2022 due to practical logistical considerations associated with transporting machinery to the islands, particularly with poorer weather conditions in winter months. The sanction of these grants now will enable the local authority to carry out preparatory works such as procurement in order to carry out these works as early as possible in 2023.