I hope to encourage all local communities, groups and schools to continue the conservation and revitalisation of raised and blanket bogs by applying for the Peatlands Community Engagement Scheme 2023. This fund has proven to be a great success in previous years, funding events, trails, restoration measures and beyond. I’d like to encourage everyone who cares about their raised bogs, blanket bogs and fens to consider this scheme if in doubt, I’d be delighted to help.
Applications are welcomed across a diverse range of peatland initiatives that offer a community benefit, including events, education programmes, conservation management plans, restoration measures, feasibility studies, public amenity and recreational projects. I had the pleasure of attending a Summer Solstice event at Clara Bog, one of Ireland’s finest remaining raised bogs, which received funding through this scheme last year. Successful applicants for this year’s assistance will be awarded funding to support a maximum of 80% of the project's eligible costs, with a maximum grant of €40,000 for designated sites and up to €20,000 for undesignated peatland or fen sites.
I look forward to seeing what communities propose for this year’s fund. I continue to be grateful for those Communities who are taking a leading role in driving protection of our precious bogs and fens. Peatlands are vast carbon stores and play an important role in preventing and mitigating the effects of climate change, supporting biodiversity and minimising flood risk, amongst other benefits.
Details of the terms and conditions of the Scheme and the application form required to apply are available via the link below: https://www.npws.ie/peatlands-and-turf-cutting/peatlands-community-engagement-scheme-funding-2023
Closing date for submission of applications is Friday, 5 May 2023.
Further details are available by contacting:
Peatland Community Engagement Scheme, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Newtown Road, Wexford, Y35 AP90.
email: pcengagementscheme@npws.gov.ie
tel: 053 9117618
Activities/projects funded under the scheme will be subject to adherence with all relevant statutory requirements.