Many traditional farm buildings are to be rescued from near extension by a new EU-funded grant scheme. The project aims to restore traditional Irish Farm buildings around the country to their former glory in order to help preserve our past traditions, history and culture i.e. 'things' that are "distinctively Irish"; "old farm buildings are what make ... our countryside so interesting and distinguish it from the rest of Europe" said Anna Meenan, the project manager of the scheme.
Also speaking about the scheme, Isabell Smyth, Communications Manager with the Heritage Council said, "the scheme is designed to provide assistance to those involved in the conservation and preservation of Ireland's traditional farm buildings. These buildings are so important to the Irish landscape as they reveal a great deal about the way the countryside has evolved and the changing fortunes of farming through the ages.
So who's eligible and who's not?
- Grants are available for buildings constructed "before 1960" and their use associated with agriculture.
- "Farmhouses, residential or domestic buildings" are not eligible, nor are "corrugated hay barns - even those from the 1920s and 1930s".
- Restoration of pigsties and hen-houses from the 1950s may also be eligible
Grant amounts will vary between €5,000 and €25,000 and applications must be received by the Heritage Council by 5pm on March 26th.
For more information and application packages check out the Heritage Council Website.
