Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2021
202. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the supports available to owners of Irish historic houses; his plans to safeguard the future of these houses in private ownership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34382/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is responsible for the protection, preservation and conservation of our built heritage assets. Historic country houses are unique and irreplaceable repositories of architecture, art, history and culture. I appreciate the intrinsic, artistic, ecological, social and economic value of our historic houses and their associated landscapes. They are also an essential component of our tourist industry and can provide attractive and exciting venues for a wide range of events and activities such as musical concerts, historical re-enactment and festivals making them an essential feature of Ireland’s annual events calendar.
I understand that there are ongoing challenges regarding the sustainable future of the remaining stock of Irish Historic Houses in private ownership. For owners, maintaining an historic house can present enormous technical, organisational and financial hurdles and therefore the identification of a viable use or uses with sufficient income to ensure their survival is essential. The future of our historic houses requires ongoing strategic planning, and the buildings require ongoing maintenance.
While my Department can help by providing grant aid for conservation works – for example through the Historic Structures Fund or Built Heritage Investment Scheme and, where properties have received a Section 482 determination from both my Department and Revenue, tax relief on such works – it is not realistic or prudent for the State to fully fund private houses. However, if we want to support owners in securing a viable future for their houses, and if we want to ensure the survival of these properties for future generations, we need to work together.
I understand that Historic Houses of Ireland has recently been offered a grant by the Heritage Council, which is funded by my Department, under its Heritage Sector Fund 2021 to commission a five-year strategic plan. Such a plan aligns with the objectives of the Action Plan for the Sustainable Future of the Irish Historic House in Private Ownership , and if delivered will allow Historic Houses of Ireland to develop a clear strategic plan for its future. My Department would welcome the opportunity to work with the project partners in providing advice and guidance.
