Over €60,000 awarded for protection of Clonmacnoise heritage building

TEMPLE Connor Church in Clonmacnoise is one of 40 projects nationwide to benefit from Historic Structures Fund.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, announced funding of €60,000 for the repair and protection of the Church under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026.

The funding will be used for the renewal of slating and flashings of the north roof slope and insertions of insulation. It will also assist with the repointing of the exterior and interior of structure to allow drying out.

Announcing the funding this week, Minister Browne said: “The award of funding under the Historic Structures Fund is a demonstration of our commitment to preserving and enhancing Ireland’s architectural legacy.

“Along with the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, this Government is continuing its commitment to safeguard our built heritage, keeping many buildings in use and helping to bring many others back into use.

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“The funding also supports the survival of the skills and expertise needed to maintain our built heritage and this will also have an economic benefit by generating employment for heritage contractors and other skilled crafts and tradespeople across the country.”

Minister O’Sullivan said: “Communities across the country know the value of our built heritage, and many of them dedicate their time, passion and expertise to ensuring their protection. I’m proud as Minister for Heritage to be able to support their work through schemes like the Historic Structures Fund.

“This grant can make the difference between a cherished heritage building falling into disrepair or being restored and valued as part of a thriving streetscape. I know this funding will have a huge impact around the country and I look forward to seeing the results for myself over the coming months and years.”

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, Deputy John Clendennen welcomed confirmation that Temple Connor Church in Clonmacnoise will receive funding under the HSF.

“This is very welcome news for Temple Connor Church and for the wider Clonmacnoise site. The allocation of €60,000 under the Historic Structures Fund will play an important role in preserving this vital piece of our built heritage, “ said Deputy Clendennen.

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This announcement comes following the recent visit of Minister of State for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran to Clonmacnoise, to sign the contract for the redevelopment of the visitors centre at Clonmacnoise.

“Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most treasured heritage and cultural sites, and it is heartening to see continued investment in its preservation. Having met with Minister Moran during his visit to Clonmacnoise, last week, I feel confident that Clonmacnoise will be available for future generations to enjoy. This funding is another positive step in protecting our history while also enhancing the experience for visitors.

“Clonmacnoise will remain a vibrant and accessible part of our national story,” concluded Deputy Clendennen.

Alongside other heritage funding streams such as the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the recently re-opened Conservation Advice Grant Scheme, the Historic Structures Fund aims to conserve, protect, and promote the use of historic buildings across our cities, towns, villages, and countryside.

This year, 40 projects across Ireland will benefit from €4.42million in HSF funding. The scheme operates on a match-funding basis with owners and custodians of historic buildings obliged to contribute towards the final cost of works.

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