Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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37. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he considers the preservation, restoration and showing of classic and vintage cars, tractors, trucks, vans, motorcycles and steam-powered vehicles to come within the remit of ‘Heritage’; if so, if he will consider devising a new grant scheme that supports the hosting of events that showcase same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24438/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The Heritage Act (1995) defines “heritage objects” as works of art or industry which are over 25 years old and which are of cultural importance. This can include classic and vintage cars, tractors, trucks, vans, motorcycles and steam-powered vehicles, as referred to.

One of the functions of The Heritage Council, a state body under the remit of my Department, is to facilitate public appreciation and enjoyment of the national heritage, including heritage objects. The Heritage Council has previously funded projects relating to historic vehicles through their Community Heritage Grant scheme, which is open to community organisations and heritage NGOs. Grants available from this scheme range from €500 up to a maximum of €25,000. Applications for this and other Heritage Council schemes are made directly to the Council through its website (www.heritagecouncil.ie).

Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department, which includes the Heritage Council, to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost-effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for the Heritage Council is oireachtas@heritagecouncil.ie.