Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed a €76,000 investment for Monivea Forest in Galway East as part of a €3.13 million national funding package for Coillte recreational sites.

The funding, announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, will support car park improvement works and trail upgrades at Monivea Forest, enhancing the experience for those using the amenity.

Welcoming the investment, Minister Canney said:

“This is a really positive investment for Monivea Forest and for the wider area. It’s a well-used local amenity and this funding will provide important upgrade works.”

In addition to this investment, Portumna Forest Park is included as part of a nationwide programme of ongoing maintenance works at over 200 recreational sites.

“It’s great to see Portumna Forest Park included in the wider maintenance programme. These are facilities people enjoy and ongoing upkeep is essential to make sure they remain safe, accessible and enjoyable.”

The €3.13 million investment marks the final year of a five-year strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte, which has seen over €16 million invested in recreation sites across the country.

Minister Canney added:

“We’ve seen a real increase in the use of these outdoor spaces in recent years. Investment like this is important, and I’ll continue to work to ensure Galway East continues to benefit as future programmes are developed.”

Note to Editors

Galway projects included under the 2026 Coillte programme:

Strategic Investment Projects:

  • Monivea Forest – Car park improvement works and trail upgrades (€76,000)

Maintenance Programme Sites:

  • Aghrane – General trail maintenance and surfacing improvements
  • Ard Na Geeha – General trail maintenance and surfacing improvements
  • Clonbur – Maintenance of extensive trail network, including tree surgery and surface repairs
  • Cong – General trail maintenance and surfacing improvements
  • Derroura MTB Trails – General trail maintenance and surfacing improvements
  • Portumna Forest Park – Ongoing maintenance of Forest Park