Laois funding boost to restore salmon and trout stocks

Laois is set to receive a funding boost from Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) for a project that will help restore  salmon and trout stocks, and their habitats.

The River Barrow Project, in Dunrally/Monasterevin, taking in counties Laois and Kildare, has been successful in receiving the funds under the IFI’s Habitats and Conservation Scheme.

Nationally a total of €771,295 has been awarded for 21 new environmental works in 2025.The competitive scheme, administered by IFI, supports sustainable initiatives to ensure native salmon and sea trout survive and thrive, and overcome ongoing challenges they face in the wild.

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Announcing the award recipients Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley TD, said: “This investment by IFI will finance vital projects that will help futureproof Ireland’s salmon and sea trout populations.

"Our migratory Atlantic salmon are in significant decline. The department and IFI are committed to supporting restoration efforts - working in partnership with our stakeholders to increase juvenile production of the species. 

 "This year’s Habitats and Conservation Scheme submissions demonstrate strong leadership in the stewardship of local rivers, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental responsibility.It’s heartening to see such positive community and stakeholder engagement in the applications."

Barry Fox Head of Operations with IFI added: "With these grants Inland Fisheries Ireland is working collaboratively with statutory and non-statutory groups to create resilient habitats for future generations of fish.  

"The projects include those that are of national strategic importance, and those that aim to improve damaged habitats in regional catchments failing to meet their conservation limits."