Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the announcement this week by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys, of funding of €624,000 for the upgrade and protection of heritage buildings under the structures at risk fund 2015. This fund is used to safeguard heritage structures in private and civic ownership. Continuing the scheme this year will allow individuals, heritage trusts, community councils, Tidy Towns groups and local authorities to work together to take positive action to protect heritage buildings and structures in their areas. Heritage is an incredibly important asset for tourism and the pride and enjoyment of local communities and visitors alike. By continuing to support best practice in the conservation of protected structures, we can preserve our built heritage for present and future generations, as well as boosting our attractiveness as a tourist destination while contributing to local employment.

I welcome this announcement and hope heritage trusts, community councils, TidyTowns groups and local authorities will take advantage of this available funding for their respective areas.