Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 November 2013
382. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will consider the re-introduction and enhancement of the conservation grant scheme to assist in the protection of our architectural heritage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49334/13]
View answerI am currently finalising details for a new Built Heritage Jobs Leverage Fund, which I hope to introduce in 2014 to assist with works to safeguard protected structures, in private and civic ownership, protected under the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2012. An allocation of €5 million was announced in Budget 2014 for this scheme as part of the capital stimulus package.
It is intended that this scheme will leverage private capital for investment in a significant number of labour intensive, small-scale renovation projects. Whilst the details of the scheme are yet to be announced, it is envisaged that the local government system will administer the scheme.
Funding for built heritage in 2014 will be subject to final confirmation in the Revised Estimates Volume.
