Inland Fisheries Ireland opens new funding scheme to support river connectivity

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has today opened a new round of  funding for projects that remove physical barriers from rivers and waterways. 

The initiative follows IFI funding schemes launched in 2025, which awarded grants of €28.48 million  to 194 projects across the county to address barriers that affect the passage of fish. 

Local authorities or other state agencies involved in the management of Irish water bodies are  encouraged to apply for the funding. Local angling groups or barrier owners are also encouraged to nominate their projects via the Expression of Interest process. 

The scheme is run by IFI’s National Barriers Mitigation Programme, and funded by the Department of  Housing, Local Government and Heritage. 

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity at the Department of Housing, Local  Government and Heritage, Christopher O’Sullivan, TD said: 

"My department is pleased to continue supporting the National Barriers Mitigation Programme and  this vital work restoring and protecting Ireland's rivers.  
“Improving river connectivity is essential for healthy aquatic ecosystems and contributes to wider  objectives under the Water Action Plan and our national biodiversity commitments. 
“This third funding scheme will help bring forward further projects that deliver lasting environmental  benefits for our rivers, for our wildlife, and for local communities." 
 

Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE) Timmy Dooley  TD said: 

“Every barrier removed or improved is a step towards a healthier and more connected river  system.  

The progress being made through the National Barrier Mitigation Programme shows what can be  achieved when Government, Inland Fisheries Ireland and local communities work together.  

I am pleased to see the programme entering its next phase and look forward to seeing the positive  impact that the projects supported through the Barrier Mitigation Fund Scheme will have on rivers  and fish populations across the country.” 

Hazel King, Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Head of the National Barriers Mitigation Programme, said: 
“Following the strong response to the first two funding schemes, we are delighted to launch this next  round of funding.  

“The enthusiasm and commitment shown by local authorities, community groups and other  stakeholders demonstrates the growing momentum behind improving the connectivity of rivers  across Ireland. 

“We look forward to supporting another cohort of projects that will deliver long-term benefits for  fish populations." 

Funding can be sought for all stages of a project – from the early planning and design stage to full  construction and habitat restoration.  

Examples of barriers eligible for funding include: 
• Old, unused weirs or sluices that obstruct migratory fish such as salmon, sea trout, lamprey  or eel; 
• Redundant structures or culverts disrupting water flow and habitats; 
• Fords or dams no longer serving their original purpose. 

Full fund details are available at www.fisheriesireland.ie/funding-schemes and submissions can be made until Tuesday September 22nd,  2026. 

All applications must be submitted through IFI’s funding at https://ifi.smartsimple.ie/s_Login.jsp?referral=1226?referral=1504