Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ó Murchú. The local improvement scheme supports the improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. The scheme makes an important contribution to connectivity in rural Ireland. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the local improvement scheme is funded into the future. The scheme was re-introduced in 2017 following a number of years with no dedicated funding. Between 2017 and 2023, my Department allocated almost €130 million towards improvement works on over 4,000 non-public roads and lanes. These works have benefitted over 20,000 landowners and residents in rural areas. In 2023 alone, a record investment of almost €30 million was allocated to local authorities across the country. Some €422,764 was allocated to Louth County Council to complete works on its list of priority roads. I am glad to confirm that the allocation for the local improvement scheme in 2024 is €13.55 million, which is an increase of €1 million on the initial funding allocated in 2023. In the interests of giving local authorities the maximum amount of time to carry out works on eligible roads, I intend to announce the 2024 scheme imminently. My officials will be in contact with local authorities regarding the detail of the scheme as soon as it is announced.

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