The Walks Scheme (formerly the Comhairle na Tuaithe/Rural Walks Scheme) is a program administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht in the Republic of Ireland. Established in 2008, the scheme provides financial assistance to private and public landholders for the development, enhancement, and maintenance of walking trails that are part of the National Waymarked Ways, other priority walks, and heritage routes approved by Sport Ireland Outdoors and listed on the National Trails Register.
Purpose and Funding
The scheme aims to promote rural tourism, improve public access to natural and cultural heritage, and support sustainable land management. Grants are awarded on a contractual basis to landholders or their nominees, who undertake maintenance work on designated trail sections. Funding is allocated annually through a competitive application process overseen by Rural Recreation Officers employed by Local Development Companies.
Scope and Impact
Since its inception, the Walks Scheme has supported thousands of kilometers of trails across all Irish counties. By 2024, over 160 trails involving approximately 2,850 landholders were funded, with annual investment reaching several million euros. Recent expansions have added new walks in counties Wexford and Monaghan and introduced routes on offshore islands such as Inis Meáin and Cape Clear.
Administration
The scheme is managed by Rural Recreation Officers who coordinate applications, monitor contract compliance, and liaise with landholders. The Department of Rural and Community Development publishes annual scheme outlines and maintains a public register of approved walks.
Notable Trails
Prominent walks included in the scheme are the Lough Derg Way, Miners Way and Historical Trail, Ardmore Cliff Walk, and the Cavan Way, among many others.
References
- Department of Rural and Community Development, “Walks Scheme” (official scheme outline, 2023).
- “Walks Scheme,” Wikipedia, accessed 2026.
- Government press releases announcing yearly expansions and funding allocations.