Six Mayo projects secure significant funding

Six Mayo projects have secured funding of €103,916 for heritage initiatives across Mayo under the Heritage Council’s 2025 Community Heritage Grant Scheme, said Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

The successful projects in Mayo are:

- The Michael Davitt National Memorial Company CLG: €6447 for The Michael Davitt Museum Conservation Survey Report 

- Turasoireacht Acla - Achill Tourism: €20,000 for the Deserted Village Slievemore Achill Island, Conservation Management Plan (CMP) 

- Friends of Mayo Dark Skies; €22,580 for Community Constellations for Dark Skies 

- Burrishoole Parish: €24,600 for Newport Parish Church Conservation Management Plan 

- Ballina Convent Regeneration CLG: €25,000 for Rainwater Goods for Ballina Sisters of Mercy Convent 

- Turlough Archaeological & Heritage Society: €5,289 for Audio guide and activity sheet 

These grants will enable local communities to conserve and celebrate Ireland’s built, cultural, and natural heritage. The allocation follows a national call for applications in February, which attracted hundreds of proposals from heritage groups, volunteers, and community organisations across the country.

Minister Dillon said: “Projects such as the Michael Davitt Museum and Mayo Dark Skies along with the Turlough Society reflect the wide range of initiatives supported by the scheme — from safeguarding historic structures to researching local heritage, restoring habitats, and building biodiversity expertise within communities.

"Community groups and heritage organisations do incredible work in preserving our natural, cultural and built heritage for generations to come with the assistance of Deirdre Cunningham and staff at the Heritage Office at Mayo County Council. From conserving historic buildings and graveyards, to digitising archives, restoring monuments, and promoting biodiversity, these initiatives ensure that Mayo’s unique stories, traditions, and places are protected for future generations. I am inspired by the creativity and commitment shown by groups across the county, and proud that this scheme continues to empower local communities to safeguard our heritage in all its forms."