IFI launches new national €250k scheme for accessible angling

Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) is seeking applications to a new €250k fund enabling those who are disabled or disadvantaged to enjoy fishing and related activities.

IFI’s Go Fishing Fund 2024 will provide angling supports to people with a disability or restricted mobility, or people facing social, economic, or educational barriers.

Applications for the scheme can be submitted via IFI’s dedicated portal from today until November 7th, 2024.

Barry Fox Deputy CEO of IFI commented: "IFI’s Go Fishing Fund 2024 will play a key role in empowering people to take up angling on Ireland’s many rivers and lakes - regardless of background or ability.

“This new investment will provide opportunities to experience recreational fishing and the natural environment. It allows people to pursue personal growth, education, or social inclusion by taking up angling-related leisure activities.”

Grants of between €2,000 and €5,000 will be allocated in the new initiative for fishing facilities, equipment, events, and biodiversity awareness outreach.

Eligible projects are being sought from not-for-profit organisations or registered charities delivering services to disadvantaged or disabled communities/persons. 

Such organisations may collaborate with educational institutions, angling clubs, or federations to deliver fishing or related educational activities.

Applications can be made for fishing activities, and the purchase of fishing and/or related safety equipment.

They can also be made for the delivery of educational programmes concerning environmental stewardship, water safety, careful handling and release of fish, and vulnerable fish habitats.

The €250k expenditure is part of a suite of measures included in the State’s Dormant Accounts Fund Action Plan 2024 involving 11 Government departments - including IFI’s parent department, the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

The Dormant Accounts Fund provides a framework for the administration of unclaimed accounts in credit institutions such as banks, building societies and An Post, and unclaimed life assurance policies in insurance undertakings. 

Inland Fisheries Ireland - the State agency that protects, manages and conserves freshwater fish and habitats - continues to urge the public to report fish kills, water pollution, habitat destruction, or illegal fishing to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.

IFI staff deploy an out-of-hours emergency response to fisheries issues of concern at Ireland’s rivers and lakes.