Green Light for Major Inis Oírr Pier Upgrade

Funding of €35.75 million has been approved for Galway County Council to proceed with the extension of the pier on Inis Oírr.

The approval will allow the council to award the main construction contract, valued at €30 million, to Ward & Burke Construction Ltd following a two-year procurement process.

The project, part of the Government’s National Development Plan, will include a concrete pier extension and a breakwater to improve protection against waves and storms in the harbour. It will also increase berthage capacity for vessels, particularly during the summer tourist season.

Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, made the announcement during a visit to the island where they met members of the local community and Galway County Council officials.

Minister Calleary said aid the €35.75 million project was the largest ever funded by his department. “This investment will ensure safe, year-round access for residents and visitors, with improved facilities for ferries, and will support the community to thrive for generations,” he said.

Minister Chambers TD, said the project highlighted the Government’s commitment to island and Gaeltacht communities. “It will create substantial employment during construction, boost economic activity on the island and support the future of Irish as a community language,” he said.

Galway County Council chief executive Liam Conneally said the project would improve connectivity, strengthen the island economy and enhance harbour safety. On-site work is expected to begin in spring 2026.

Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, said the announcement was “a strong commitment to the future of Inis Oírr, supporting the community and sustainable tourism for generations to come.”