Over €500,000 in funding for Kilkenny under Local Improvement Scheme

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow-Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has welcomed the allocation of significant funding for Carlow and Kilkenny under the 2026 Local Improvement Scheme (LIS), announced by Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

Under the scheme, Kilkenny has been allocated €565,890.

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The Local Improvement Scheme will provide €17.55 million nationally in 2026 for the repair and improvement of non-public rural roads and laneways, representing a €2 million increase secured in Budget 2026. The scheme also includes ring fenced funding for eligible roads on offshore islands.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy McGuinness said:

“This is very positive news for rural communities across Carlow and Kilkenny. The Local Improvement Scheme is a practical and effective programme that directly supports families and farmers who rely on these roads every day to access their homes and livelihoods.

“The allocation of €374,850 for Carlow and €565,890 for Kilkenny will make a tangible difference on the ground. These are roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities, yet they are absolutely vital to the people who use them.”

Deputy McGuinness acknowledged the Government’s continued commitment to rural infrastructure, noting that over €201 million has been allocated to local authorities under the LIS since it was reintroduced in 2017.

“This scheme is built on partnership. Homeowners and farmers make a modest local contribution, and the Government provides the balance to ensure works can proceed. It is a fair and community-focused model that delivers real results,” he said.

The Deputy also welcomed the early launch of the 2026 scheme, which will allow local authorities to plan works to coincide with favourable weather conditions, ensuring as many eligible roads as possible can be completed this year.

“By opening the scheme in February, the Minister is giving councils the opportunity to schedule and deliver these projects efficiently. I will be engaging with both Carlow and Kilkenny County Councils to ensure priority projects move forward without delay.”

Local authorities are responsible for identifying and prioritising roads for improvement works under the scheme, in consultation with residents and landowners.

Deputy McGuinness concluded:

“Investment in rural infrastructure is investment in people. This funding will enhance safety, improve accessibility and support the sustainability of rural life in Carlow and Kilkenny. I welcome this announcement and look forward to seeing the benefits delivered in communities across both counties.”