Mayo TDs welcome €99,000 investment in Mayo’s offshore islands

Four offshore islands in Mayo will see significant improvement works to its infrastructure after funding of €99,000 was approved for essential minor capital works.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has today announced €828,000 for capital works on Ireland's offshore islands with €99,000 allocated for works on four Clew Bay islands -  Clare Island, Inishturk, Inishlyre Island and Clynish Island - as well as repair works to Roonagh Pier.

Speaking after announcing the funding, Minister Calleary said he was delighted to support the offshore island communities.

“I’m delighted to announce funding today of €828,000 to support the delivery and upgrade of dozens of infrastructure projects on our offshore islands.

“Empowering our island communities by investing in infrastructure is a key commitment under our ten-year Islands Policy, ‘Our Living Islands’.

“Since my appointment as Minister in January of this year, I have made the islands a priority. I have already visited some of the islands and it is my intention to visit all of them during my tenure. 

“From roads and piers to coastal protection and street lighting – these projects are vital in terms of enhancing the island life for people living on our islands and the many visiting tourists," he said.

The funding which was also welcomed by Mayo's two Fine Gael TDs, Keira Keogh and Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

“I am delighted that funding has been approved for capital works including roadworks, streetlighting and rehabilitation works to repair coastal erosion at two Mayo piers,” Minister Dillon said.

“The investment will support critical infrastructure upgrades that enhance safety, accessibility and resilience for island communities.”

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The approved works on Clare Island will see €9,000 allocated for resurfacing of the island's road and concrete apron works to the slipway while €18,000 has been allocated for pier furniture upgrades on both the old and new piers.

Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh has been allocated €9,000 for the installation of two new streetlights to improve safety near the slipway and old pier.

An allocation of €27,000 has been allocated for the construction of a pier shelter on Inishturk to provide protection for passengers and goods.

A sum of €18,000 has been allocated for the rehabilitation of coastal erosion gabions on Inishlyre Island in Clew Bay as well as the replacement of pontoon fendering.

Clynish Island in Clew Bay has also been allocated €18,000 for the restoration of coastal protection gabions and a stone wall.

The funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will cover up to 90 percent of the capital cost for these projects while the local authorities will provide the balance.

Minister Dillon added: “These works reflect the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting our island communities. I want to thank Mayo County Council and local stakeholders for their continued collaboration in identifying and prioritising these important projects.

“This funding is a vital boost for our island communities, ensuring that essential infrastructure is maintained and improved. These works will support local residents, visitors, and marine users alike.”

Deputy Keogh added: “Improving infrastructure on the islands off Mayo’s coast is a smart, future-focused investment that supports vibrant, self-sustaining communities. It is essential for preserving heritage and promoting balanced regional development.”