A grant scheme to fund the conservation and preservation of traditional farms buildings has opened for applications, the Agriculture Minister announced.
Minister Charlie McConalogue said €1.25 million has been secured for the 2021 GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme, which will be online this year.
“The earliest structure supported on the scheme so far dates from the early 15th century, still standing, still functional,” he said.
“The greenest building is the one that already exists, embodying carbon and offsetting the need for expensive new buildings as long they are well used.”
Minister McConalogue said the benefits of the scheme went beyond retaining the structures for future generations because it can also have significant biodiversity benefits.
“Even the smallest building can provide roosting sites for bats and nesting sites for birds. Many can support a great diversity of wildlife, including species of conservation concern and this scheme works with farmers to support, enhance and safeguard the wildlife inhabiting these buildings.”
The scheme is managed by the Heritage Council and includes structures of significant heritage value, which are conserved for agriculture use.
Available grants range between €4,000 and €25,000 with up to 75 per cent of the cost of the project eligible for funding with a maximum available grant of €25,000.
Terms and conditions and the online application form are available on the Heritage Council website. Applications close on Monday 5 April, 2021, at 5pm.
LSL News.