Minister Welcomes Public Support for Award-Winning Heritage Scheme

Jun 7, 2024 | Farm Viability

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D., has celebrated the Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme’s recognition with the prestigious European Heritage Award 2024. This accolade acknowledges the scheme’s significant contributions to preserving Ireland’s agricultural vernacular heritage.

“I am delighted that the Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme has been honoured with the European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award 2024,” said Minister McConalogue. “Our department, in partnership with the Heritage Council, co-funds this scheme under the Rural Development Programme. The initiative safeguards farm buildings, vital heritage assets often overlooked, and we are proud to collaborate with owners who value these structures.”

The Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme highlights the cultural and ecological significance of farm buildings, promoting traditional crafts and maintaining Ireland’s rural landscape. This European recognition underscores the success of the Heritage Council’s efforts and its collaboration with the Department of Agriculture.

Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, expressed pride in the scheme, now in its 15th year. “The scheme “embodies our commitment to natural, built, and cultural heritage. It protects wildlife habitats, restores beautiful old buildings using traditional skills, and preserves their historical narratives. The European accolade is a testament to its success and can inspire others.”

The Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme, co-funded by the Department of Agriculture and the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, supports the conservation of heritage farm structures, enhancing biodiversity and promoting traditional building techniques. For more details, visit the Heritage Council’s website.

The European Heritage Awards, launched in 2002 by the European Commission and managed by Europa Nostra, recognize up to 30 exemplary heritage projects annually, with up to five Grand Prix winners receiving €10,000.

The awards jury praised the scheme for its comprehensive approach and emphasis on peer-to-peer learning, fostering connections among diverse stakeholders.

Minister McConalogue concluded by encouraging public support: “On 30 May, Europa Nostra will open voting for the Public Choice Award. I urge the public to vote for the Traditional Farm Buildings Scheme at vote.europanostra.org.”

Europa Nostra, founded in 1963, is Europe’s largest heritage network, advocating for cultural heritage preservation. Recognised as the largest and the most representative heritage network in Europe, to win such an award is a huge accolade that carries great prestige.

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