IFI funds restoration works on north Westmeath river

Restoration works on north Westmeath's Stoneyford River, an important spawning river for Atlantic Salmon, was one of over 30 projects funded by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

The IFI financed spawning gravel works on the Stoneyford River, a tributary of the River Boyne, through its habitats and conservation programmes. In total, 32 community, angling club, and national projects in 16 counties were funded this year at a cost of €985k.

In a statement issued this week, the IFI announced that it has allocated more than €1m to support healthy habitats for fish in rivers nationwide next year and has invited expressions of interest from groups.

Brian Beckett acting head of operations at IFI commented: “Since 2016 IFI has given more than €7m in grants to over 312 river restoration and barrier mitigation projects throughout Ireland.

“These schemes, which are administered by IFI, invest in sustainable developments that help native salmon and sea trout survive and thrive, and to overcome increasing challenges they face in the wild.

“They also support key fisheries research and critical habitats work to enhance the resilience of fish populations in an era of climate disruption.”

Monies are generated from salmon and sea trout angling, commercial fishing licences, and the sale of fishing permits.

Applications for IFI’s Habitats and Conservation Funding 2025 have now opened, and expressions of interest can be made until December 13.

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

Additional and comprehensive information is available to view in IFI’s Funding Call guide for 2025 at www.fisheriesireland.ie.