IFI to provide over €1m for river transformative restoration projects in 2027

Rivers in Meath could be set to benefit as Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is to provide more than €1 million to support healthy habitats for fish in rivers nationwide in 2027.

In 2026, Meath was one of nine counties included as IFI’s Habitats and Conservation Scheme awarded a total of €763,667 in funding to 18 environmental projects, as well as for national projects.

The 2027 funding call is now open, with expression of interest accepted until December 10th, 2026.

Barry Fox Head of Operations at IFI commented: "IFI partners with local communities and stakeholders nationwide to conserve fish species, for the benefit of current and future generations.

"By restoring our natural river systems, we are protecting native wild salmon and sea trout populations while building long-term environmental resilience against climate change and biodiversity loss."

Monies for the grants are generated by the sale of salmon and sea trout angling licences and permits, and commercial fishing licences in Ireland.

Eligible angling clubs, fishery owners and other stakeholders are invited to express their interest in submitting a proposal.

A webinar on the application process is being held at 8pm on Thursday, November 19th.

Full application details, and a registration form for the upcoming webinar, are available here.

The Habitats and Conservation Scheme comprise two competitive initiatives – the Salmon and Sea Trout Rehabilitation, Conservation and Protection Fund, and the Midland Fisheries Fund.

The Midland Fisheries Fund is focused on supporting angling and sustainable development works in the Midland Fisheries Group permit area.