The Clare Deputy noted the funding, which represents a slight increase on the 2009 allocation, will support the conservation of protected structures throughout County Clare.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “The conservation of our historic buildings makes our towns and villages more attractive to tourists and locals alike and can often act as a catalyst for further heritage projects in an area, as it enhances local awareness in our built heritage.”

Meanwhile, Minister of State Killeen said funds are being allocated to the Office of Public Works (OPW) to undertake conservation work at Ennis Friary.  He continued: “The continued conservation of heritage properties in State care, such as Ennis Friary, will I hope contribute to our economy and provide a boost to the tourism sector in particular”.

“The funding package underlines the continued commitment to the preservation and conservation of our rich built heritage by the State. Our built heritage is inextricably linked with our sense of pride in this country and affirms our cultural and historical identity. It is essential that we continue to invest in built heritage conservation to ensure the ongoing preservation of Ireland’s renowned heritage. Investment in the heritage stock can also bring economic benefits in the form of cultural tourism and employment”, Minister of State Killeen concluded.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
-    High-resolution images of Tony Killeen, Fianna Fail TD for Clare, and Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, with special responsibility for Forestry, Fisheries and the Marine, may be downloaded from www.dunphyprimages.com
-    For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy PR at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 086-8534900