Today, my colleague, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, has announced that 95 Heritage projects across the country will benefit from a total of €4.5m under this year’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF).

I'm delighted that today's announcement delivers support of €285,000 for Offaly, and €107,000 for Laois.

In addition to supporting owners and custodians of historic and protected structures to safeguard and maintain many of the heritage buildings that we know and love, this funding will also provide a welcome boost to local construction and heritage trades.

Successful applications include important heritage buildings like Roundwood House near Mountrath in Co Laois, and the conservation and repair of the drawbridge at Birr Castle in Co Offaly.

These projects not only help to conserve our built heritage, but they add value to our quality of life, our tourism offering, and keep traditional skills alive.

I’m also delighted to welcome the vernacular stream to this funding, which recognises the value of buildings important for their local origin and design, using traditional materials and resources from the area. Vernacular projects in Rahan in Offaly, and Ballyroan in Laois are funded on this occasion

The HSF is one of two built heritage funding schemes which work in partnership with owners and the 31 local authorities to protect our built heritage – a key aim of Heritage Ireland 2030, the new national heritage plan launched by Minister Noonan last year.

My best wishes to all successful applicants and my thanks, as always, to the heritage teams in the Local Authorities who do great work in preparation for this grant and other heritage grant schemes.

Find a full list of the successful projects in Laois and Offaly below;