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 targeted investment in trail maintenance works at key forest sites in Galway East, as part of a wider €4 million package announced by Minister Dara Calleary.

The funding will support vital upkeep and storm damage repairs at the following sites:

  • Derrygill – Trail repairs and general maintenance within the forest recreation area
  • Monivea – Trail clearing, repairs and ongoing maintenance within the forest recreation area
  • Mountbellew – Trail repairs and general maintenance within the forest recreation area
  • Portumna Forest Park – Trail redress and general maintenance within the forest park
  • Rosturra – Trail repairs and general maintenance within the forest recreation area

“This investment will make a real difference to our local communities,” said Minister Canney. “These forests are widely used for walking and recreation. This funding ensures they are maintained to a high standard and remain safe and accessible — especially following the damage caused by Storm Éowyn earlier this year.”

The overall 2025 allocation includes:

  • €2.6 million for trail infrastructure and maintenance at 169 sites nationwide
  • €1.4 million to repair storm damage at up to 200 forest recreation areas

 Notes

This maintenance funding is part of the Department of Rural and Community Development’s strategic partnership with Coillte under the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023–2027, aimed at supporting local access to nature, outdoor activity, and rural tourism.

The following sites in County Galway are receiving Coillte maintenance funding in 2025:

  • Aghrane – Trail clearing & repairs and ongoing maintenance
  • Cong – Trail redress and visitor safety works
  • Derroura MTB Trails – Trail clearing and visitor safety works of mountain bike trails
  • Derrygill – Trail repairs and general maintenance
  • Inchagoill – Trail repairs and general maintenance
  • Monivea – Trail clearing, repairs and ongoing maintenance
  • Mountbellew – Trail repairs and general maintenance
  • Portumna Forest Park – Trail redress and general maintenance
  • Rosturra – Trail repairs and general maintenance