Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, have today (14 August 2026) announced a €6 million investment under the Golf Legacy Infrastructure Investment Programme 2026–2030.
This new dedicated capital funding programme will support the installation of several golf infrastructure projects, amplifying the participation legacy arising from State investment in a series of major international golf events, including next year’s Ryder Cup in Adare, Co Limerick. This investment will build on the success of existing Sport Ireland-funded, and Golf Ireland-operated, participation programmes, by developing low-cost, publicly accessible golf facilities such as putting greens, chipping greens, practice areas and short courses.
Applications for funding under the programme will be invited annually, with the first round opening on 17th August 2026. The closing date for applications is Friday 25th September 2026.
It is anticipated that the funding awarded to individual projects will range from €100,000 to €300,000.
Further information about the programme and the application process, is available from the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, on it’s website at gov.ie/golflegacy or by e-mailing golflegacy@ccs.gov.ie.
Golf Ireland will host information webinars during the application period and can be contacted directly at GLII@golfireland.ie for guidance on project suitability.
Speaking recently, Minister O’Donovan said: “Following extensive engagement between my Department, Golf Ireland and Sport Ireland, the resultant Golf Legacy Infrastructure Investment Programme will provide long-term participation benefits from State investment in major international golf events. Next year’s Ryder Cup in Adare Manor, is expected to be the biggest sporting event ever to be staged in Ireland and we want to make sure that the event delivers long-term benefits for the game. This programme will support the growth of the game of golf, in all its forms, right across the country.”
Minister McConalogue, said: “As a Government, we are intent on working to promote life-long participation in sport and physical activity so that everyone can enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Availability and ease of access to sports facilities, whether in a club or community setting, on public lands or in other amenity areas, is a key factor in drawing more people to participation in sport, across all sectors of society. That’s why I’m particularly pleased to see that this programme will break down barriers to participation in golf by reaching into non-traditional golfing populations, while also promoting equal access for women and men.”
Golf Ireland CEO Mark Kennelly said: “Golf continues to grow in Ireland, and this investment reflects our commitment to ensuring that it remains inclusive and sustainable. Through the Golf Legacy Infrastructure Investment Programme, we are creating more opportunities to experience the game, while supporting clubs and communities to develop facilities for members and non-members. With major golf events providing a platform to inspire and attract new participants, this investment is about building pathways into golf and strengthening foundations for the future.”
Former Open winner and Offaly native Shane Lowry said: “It’s great to have a legacy initiative like this tied to major golf events held on the island of Ireland. The Open in Royal Portrush meant so much to my career and major golf events have the power to inspire others. My passion for the Ryder Cup is obvious and to have the event return to Ireland at Adare Manor in 2027 will be another massive boost for golf in Ireland.”
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