O’Shea Welcomes €1.35 Million Local Improvement Scheme Funding for Cork County Council

Cork North West Fine Gael TD, John Paul O’Shea, has warmly welcomed the allocation of €1,346,620 to Cork County Council under the 2026 Local Improvement Scheme (LIS).

The funding forms part of a €17.55 million national package announced today by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, which includes a €2 million increase secured in Budget 2026.

Cork’s allocation comprises:

• €1,206,620 for rural roads and laneways

• €140,000 in ringfenced funding for eligible roads on offshore islands

Total: €1,346,620

Deputy O’Shea said “I am delighted to see over €1.34 million allocated to Cork County Council under the 2026 Local Improvement Scheme. This is essential funding that will make a real difference to families and farmers across Cork North West who rely on rural roads and laneways every single day.

“The additional €2 million secured nationally in Budget 2026 demonstrates this Government’s continued commitment to rural Ireland. The LIS plays a vital role in ensuring that people can safely access their homes and farms, particularly on non-public roads that are not normally maintained by local authorities.”

The Local Improvement Scheme supports improvement works on non-public rural roads and laneways, with homeowners and landowners making a modest local contribution and the Government providing the balance of funding. Since its reintroduction in 2017, more than €201 million has been allocated to local authorities nationwide.

Deputy O’Shea added “Launching the scheme early this year will allow Cork County Council to plan works efficiently and ensure that as many eligible roads as possible can be completed during favourable weather conditions. I would encourage residents and landowners to engage with the Council regarding eligible roads in their areas.”

Deputy O’Shea concluded by reaffirming Fine Gael’s commitment to investing in rural infrastructure and supporting vibrant rural communities across Cork North West.