DONEGAL TD Pat ‘the Cope’ Gallagher has welcomed €727,350 in funding for the county’s offshore islands, announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD under the 2026 Minor Capital Works Programme.
The funding will support infrastructure works across Árainn Mhór, Toraigh, Gabhla, Inis Fraoigh, Inis Bó Finne and Machaire Rabhartaigh, covering transport, marine access, public safety and accessibility.
On Árainn Mhór, the projects include refurbishment of the island’s helipad to meet aviation standards, road-marking works to manage ferry traffic, resurfacing and safety upgrades on the Lighthouse Road, and repairs to roads, footpaths and drainage at Leadhb Garbh. Consultants are also to be appointed to develop structural proposals for Ranny Quay.
Elsewhere, safety railings on Toraigh are to be replaced and upgraded, the boat shelter on Inis Fraoigh will be repaired, and pier access works are planned for Inis Bó Finne. A detailed inspection of steel piling at Machaire Rabhartaigh will take place alongside preparation of a masterplan for Magheraroarty Quay. On Gabhla, road resurfacing and drainage works will cover routes linking the South Quay, Cemetery, Old Schoolhouse and Old Quarry.
Deputy Gallagher said the funding reflected “the varied needs of our islands, from transport and harbour infrastructure to road safety, emergency access and future planning for key coastal facilities.”
He thanked Minister Calleary for his commitment to the islands and Donegal County Council, which is contributing 10 per cent of the funding, adding that he would continue working with island communities and the council to ensure the projects are delivered as quickly as possible.