Kilkenny farmers: Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme now open

A Heritage Council and Department of Agriculture scheme to fund the conservation of traditional farm buildings has opened for applications.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue T.D has announced the opening of the 2023 Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme.

The grant scheme is run in partnership with the Heritage Council and invests in the conservation of traditional farm buildings and structures of significant heritage value that contribute to our rural landscape for agricultural use.

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The scheme funds the conservation and preservation of traditional farm buildings and structures such as historic yard surfaces, gates and gate pillars as part of the working farm. Many of the supported structures also provide roosting sites for bats and nesting sites for birds.

Minister McConalogue TD said the scheme has a budget of €1.25 million.
The scheme supports farmers who wish to secure the historic buildings on their farm.
“This is a hugely important scheme for conserving the past for the demands of the future. It is more than securing a building – it is about preserving a history, a culture and a way of life,” Minister McConalogue said.

“The partnership between my Department and the Heritage Council has been critical to the success of this scheme and is an example of how two entities with very different missions can pool resources and expertise to deliver a scheme to a level that neither could achieve alone.

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“I have seen first-hand completed projects and I know farmers who have benefited under the scheme have a much better appreciation of their own cultural and natural heritage. I encourage all eligible participants to consider applying for it and look forward to seeing further completed projects later this year.”

Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan said this grant scheme also actively supports the retention of traditional building skills in Ireland.
The closing date for receipt of online applications is Monday, 24th April, at 5pm. Terms and conditions and the online application form are available at www.heritagecouncil.ie/