The announcement was made today, Thursday August 28, by Rural and Community Development Minister Dara Calleary TD, and Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers TD.
The development on Inis Oírr, the smallest of the three Aran Islands in Co Galway, comprises the construction of a concrete pier extension and a breakwater, designed to provide better protection from waves and storms within the harbour, along with increased berthage space for vessels, particularly during the summer months when demand is greater due to tourist traffic.
Inis Oírr.
Today’s News in 90 Seconds – Thursday, August 28
The funding approval has enabled Galway County Council to award the main construction contact, valued at €30 million, to Ward & Burke Construction Ltd following a two-year procurement process.
Works on the island are expected to begin in spring 2026.
This is the first project to be announced since the publication of the revised €275bn National Development Plan last month.
During a visit to Inis Oírr, Ministers Calleary and Chambers said this project represents the single biggest project funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht since 2017.
Minister Dara Calleary. Photo: Mary Browne
Minister Calleary said: “It gives me great pleasure to confirm that I have secured the funding required to proceed with the Inis Oírr pier development project. The overall cost of this project is €35.75m, with over €30m for the construction contract alone. This represents the single biggest project funded by my Department since it was established in 2017, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to rural Ireland and Island communities.
“This investment in Inis Oírr will ensure safe year-round access for island residents and visitors alike, with better facilities for ferries, and will support the community to thrive for generations to come.”
Minister Chambers added: “The benefits of this investment go far beyond the physical structure alone. It will create substantial employment throughout the construction phase, which will bring increased economic activity to the island. This is an investment in people, in a community, and in a vision for the future of our islands and for the future of Irish as a community language. This underscores Government’s commitment to delivering economic growth enabling infrastructure to support families, communities and local enterprise.
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said: “I welcome the Department’s funding for the upgrade and extension of the pier on Inis Oírr. This investment supports our Corporate Plan objectives to develop piers and harbours, improving connectivity with our islands. It will strengthen transport links, support the island’s community and economy, and enhance storm resilience and harbour safety.”
“With funding approved, Galway County Council has entered a contract for the next phase of the project. Design and off-site construction can begin immediately, with on-site work expected to start in spring 2026.”