|
This update for the month of April contains details on a number of heritage grant schemes and projects as well as details of heritage events over the coming weeks that may be of interest.
Note also that the County Cork Heritage Grant Schemes closes to applications at 5pm on Thursday 18th April.
News and details now in full ...
 Cork County Council has announced the opening of the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme for 2024. The Scheme seeks to recognise the unrivalled heritage of the county and the numerous groups who actively engage with their local heritage, protecting and promoting it for residents and visitors alike.
The aim of the scheme is to acknowledge and support Cork County’s many heritage groups in undertaking activities that in turn support the actions and objectives of the County Cork Heritage Plan. The scheme is funded by both Cork County Council and the Heritage Council.
Last year, 29 groups were awarded funding for a range of excellent proposals including Heritage Week projects, video documentaries, conservation plans for important local heritage buildings, exhibitions, archives, natural heritage projects and a range of heritage publications.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O’Flynn welcomed the return of the scheme saying, ‘Since the scheme commenced in 2021, 83 projects have been allocated funding of close to €100,000. Funding allocated under the scheme has had a huge impact, facilitating the extraordinary efforts of local heritage groups in undertaking the most worthwhile of projects that benefit each and every one of us. Heritage is often taken for granted, but this grant scheme ensures that those who are passionate about the heritage of people and place in County Cork - past, present and future - can be supported in their endeavours. I encourage local groups to apply under the scheme this year.’
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie O’Sullivan noted, ‘The heritage of County Cork is all around us and part of who we are, but it requires due attention and care for its preservation and promotion. The County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme demonstrates the Council’s commitment to supporting endeavours that give the County of Cork its sense of place. Built, cultural and natural heritage projects are all supported under the scheme, as are projects in Irish and a range of events for National Heritage Week. Cork County Council is grateful to the Heritage Council for the additional support it provides to the scheme and looks forward to seeing the range of projects put forward under the scheme this year.’
Full details of the ‘County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2024’ are available at the link below.
Applications can be made online; emailed to corkheritage@corkcoco.ie or delivered to ‘County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2024’, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork. The closing date for application forms is 17:00 on Thursday the 18th of April 2024.
For further information email corkheritage@corkcoco.ie or phone (021) 4276891.
County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme for 2024
Click for more information or to apply.
 The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is open for applications.
The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme has opened for applications for the third year of the programme. Developed by The King’s Foundation in partnership with the Heritage Council and Northern Ireland’s Department for Communities, this programme will welcome seven aspiring craftspeople with an interest in heritage skills, who will work on historic buildings and sites throughout the island of Ireland.
Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons welcomed the launch of the programme and urged anyone interested in heritage skills to apply. Minister Lyons said: “This programme has not only helped budding craftspeople hone their skills and build a career, it also supports the Department as we strive to preserve and restore our historic environment. Traditional skills such as blacksmithing, stone masonry and carpentry are essential for completing any conservation work to our heritage assets, ensuring they retain their special character for future generations to visit and enjoy.
These skills are also in demand as we support communities in the regeneration and repurposing of historic older buildings for the benefit of local people. At the Department’s Heritage Skills Centre in Moira, students will have the opportunity to gain practical experience in traditional building skills, conservation and repair, as well as working towards a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Heritage Skills (Construction).”
The course will begin in July 2024 and has been specifically developed to meet the demand for upskilling in heritage building skills in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to spend 12 months engaging in collaborative learning experiences while honing their heritage craft skills and gaining invaluable experience working on historic sites.
Hugh Kavanagh, All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Manager at The King’s Foundation said: “We are delighted to be able to partner once again with the Department for Communities and the Heritage Council on this unique project. It has been so inspirational to see how the bursary recipients develop their knowledge of heritage skills throughout the programme, but also to see how the programme itself is continuing to build on its success in previous years. It’s a unique partnership that is making a real difference.”
The course will help preserve skills that are at risk of being lost such as traditional carpentry, lime work, thatching, blacksmithing and stonemasonry. To ensure it is accessible to all, successful applicants will receive a full scholarship and will be provided with a monthly bursary to help cover the cost of travel and accommodation.
Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, said: “At a time when the supply of skilled heritage craftspeople is on the decline, it is imperative that we create a space for the next generation to learn, to grow and to flourish. The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme stands as a beacon in preserving and fostering these invaluable crafts and is the only programme of its kind currently operating. By providing a platform for the course participants to hone their skills and elevate their craft, we ensure that our heritage continues to thrive and enrich future generations."
Applications for The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme are open now until 5pm on Monday 22nd April 2024. To apply, or to find out more, visit the page on the King's Foundation website.
For more information and to see a video regarding the initiative visit https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/news/news-features/all-ireland-heritage-skills-programme-launched.
 National Heritage Week 2024 will take place this year from 17th-25th August and will celebrate the theme of Connections, Routes and Networks.
During National Heritage Week 2024 taking place from 17th - 25th August, we are encouraging you to explore the physical, cultural and natural connections in your community and beyond.
How do we connect to each other, through roads, rivers, rail or waterways? What are the cultural connections like sports or past-times that bring us together? How does our environment and natural landscape create connections?
Explore this year’s theme and how you can participate in National Heritage Week 2024 by visiting https://www.heritageweek.ie/news/national-heritage-week-2024-theme.
 National Heritage Week 2024 will take place from 17th-25th August 2024. This year celebrates the theme of "Connections, Routes & Networks". Training & Networking events are happening at Dublin, Sligo and Limerick. These events are designed to provide valuable insights, knowledge and tips on how to create successful Heritage Week events in your local community. Come and connect with fellow heritage enthusiasts, get some practical tips and more. For more information visit https://www.heritageweek.ie/get-involved/training-days-for-organisers.
An investment of €524,138.72 has been announced for Cork County under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) and Historic Structures Fund (HSF), two heritage funding schemes run by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in association with the country’s 31 Local Authorities.
Under the BHIS for Cork County, 16 projects will benefit from funding to the sum of €162,138.72 with €38,948 specifically for conservation works in respect of three thatched buildings, located in Charleville, Mitchelstown and Ballymacoda. The balance of €123,190.72 will support conservation works in respect of 13 buildings, which are Myrtle Grove, Youghal; Glenville Park, Glenville; St Patricks Church, Fermoy; Thatched Cottage, Ballindangan Crossroads; Saint George’s Arts & Heritage Centre, Mitchelstown; The Sisters of Mercy Convent, Rosscarbery; Creagh Castle House and St Mary’s Church, Doneraile; Midleton College, Midleton; No. 10 Emmet Square, Clonakilty; Athnowen Church, Ovens; St. Colmans Cathedral, Cloyne; Annes Grove Gatelodge, Castletownroche.
Six projects from Cork County in Midleton, Cobh, Kinsale, Mourneabbey and Mallow will benefit from the Historic Structures Fund (HSF). By providing grants of between €15,000 and €200,000, the HSF assists owners of heritage structures, including those on the local authorities’ ‘Record of Protected Structures’ and those in Architectural Conservation Areas, to meet their obligations to care for their properties. The scheme provides assistance to a wide range of heritage structures, including castles, churches, mills, bridges, shopfronts, and thatch structures, as well as to private houses. Sirius Arts Centre was awarded €100,000 and Mallow Castle €96,000 with a further €96,000 ringfenced for 2025. Overall HSF funding for the County of Cork in 2024 amounts to €362,000.
Since acquiring Mallow Castle House and grounds in 2010, Cork County Council has undertaken substantial remediation works, including the restoration of the walled gardens, enhancement of pathways, improvements to the adjacent Deerpark, restoration works to the Lime Kiln and granary buildings and the addition of an inclusive nature themed playground in 2021. The Council has also begun re-roofing of the Castle House at the cost of €1.6M. HSF funding awarded to the Council will support conservation and repairs of the castle windows.
HSF funding of €20,000 received for Mourneabbey Monastic Site will support Cork County Council in conserving the church and curtilage walls at the south of site, including pointing, repairs and removal of vegetation to prevent further structural decline, as well as conservation works to the church ruins complex.
Welcoming the allocations, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O’Flynn said, ‘This allocation of over €500,000 through the BHIS and HSF is a very welcome investment in the unrivalled built heritage of County Cork. These funds will facilitate important heritage conservation works at 22 different properties throughout the county. Through excellent heritage practice and schemes such as the BHIS and HSF, the built heritage of County Cork is clearly being valued and I wish all applicants success with their projects.’
The BHIS assists owners of heritage structures, including those on the local authorities’ Record of Protected Structures and those in Architectural Conservation Areas, to meet their obligations to care for their properties by providing match-funded grants of up to €15,000 for projects. The scheme is not limited to private dwellings; it also provides assistance to a wide range of other important heritage structures and in 2024, funding included the ringfencing of €500,000 for conservation repairs to historic thatched structures across the State.
Speaking of the allocations, Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie O’Sullivan added, ‘Heritage is one of the county’s greatest assets and as a Council we welcome the opportunity to administer and support these schemes which provide essential funding for the conservation of important heritage buildings.’
 Cork County Council is launching a new Circular Economy Fund with the aim of empowering local action to drive a more circular economy. The fund aims to support communities to move away from the traditional linear ‘take-make-use-dispose’ model towards more circular living where resources are reused or recycled as much as possible, and the generation of waste is minimised.
The inaugural theme of what we hope will be an annual programme focuses on the reduction of single-use plastics, inviting schools, community groups, sports clubs, and festivals to submit proposals aimed at minimising single use plastics throughout their activities.
The fund builds on the successful engagement between Cork County Council and communities in recent years which has seen 35 water refill stations installed in schools and community buildings across Cork County as well as mobile hydration stations piloted at events.
With an increasing demand from the public to reduce single use plastics and a desire from communities to act, this fund will this year support the installation of temporary or permanent water refill stations in schools, community buildings, sports clubs and at festivals, reducing the environmental impacts of single use plastics.
Applications for the Circular Economy Fund are now open and will be accepted until Thursday 25th April at 5pm.
 Cork County Council is delighted to announce that the long-awaited reopening of Camden Fort Meagher will take place on Saturday, the 27th of April. The fort closed to the public for the 2023 season to facilitate essential repair work to safeguard the structural integrity of Camden Fort Meagher for many years to come.
Camden Fort Meagher is internationally recognised as being “One of the finest remaining examples of a classical Coastal Artillery Fort in the world.” For almost 400 years the fort played a key role as a strong strategic position for the defence of Ireland, the west coast of England and Wales. 65% of the fort is located underground in a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.
The fort has had extensive restoration works recently completed on the casemate block. Specialist works included the excavation, waterproofing and backfilling of barrel-vaulted roofs. Traditional methods for stone cleaning and re-pointing of stonework with lime mortar to safeguard the integrity of the original construction were employed. The restoration project has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2024.
In another new beginning for Crosshaven, and to coincide with the reopening of Camden Fort Meagher, Cork County Council is proud to sponsor jerseys for Crosshaven GAA Club’s newly established girls football teams, providing two sets of jerseys with the Camden Fort Meagher logo displayed on the front.
At the sponsorship event for the Crosshaven Girls Football team, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O’Flynn said, ‘These are exciting times for Crosshaven. The establishment of Crosshaven GAA Club’s first girls football teams is a huge positive for the area. The advantages of sport cannot be emphasised enough, we are delighted that the girls’ teams will wear the Camden Fort Meagher logo as it nears its reopening date. The extensive restoration works that have taken place during the forts closure to the public, will ensure that the fort will be enjoyed and survive for generations to come.’
In addition to the extensive restoration work, the reopening will also see a new on-site ticket office and gift shop added to the visitor experience, which includes guided tours of the fort as well as a café with breathtaking views of Cork Harbour from its balcony allowing diners to spot the numerous cruise ships visiting Cork.
Chief Executive of Cork County Council Valerie O’Sullivan added, ‘As we prepare for the reopening of Camden Fort Meagher, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the volunteers back on site and to thank them for their amazing work in the past. Their dedication and passion continue to prove invaluable as we work together to preserve and promote this historical site for generations to come.’
Camden Fort Meagher will remain open for an extended season from April to October. For further updates, follow Camden Fort Meagher on Facebook: Camden Fort Meagher and Instagram: @camdenfortmeagher.
 Biodiversity Week, organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), runs from the 17th to the 26th of May this year. Each year there is typically a great variety of events taking place. Should you or your group be interested in hosting an event please send the details to corkheritage@corkcoco.ie for wider promotion. Events can include anything from nature walks and talks, to Library events, identification workshops, etc.
The Heritage Council is seeking a Biodiversity Officer to support the Heritage Council in achieving the aims and objectives of Our Place in time: Heritage Council Strategic Plan 2023-28. The Biodiversity Officer will have responsibility for the development and implementation of biodiversity policy at local, regional and national level, particularly in relation to land use and habitat restoration.
Ideal candidates should possess a strong background in ecology, a deep understanding of policy development and proven experience in stakeholder engagement. The role requires excellent analysis and communication skills, the ability to forge partnerships across sectors, and a passion for integrating biodiversity considerations into public policy. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in maximising the impact of the emerging Local Authority Biodiversity Officer programme as well as leading biodiversity policy development for the Heritage Council. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on conserving Ireland’s natural heritage.
The closing date for applications is Monday 22nd April, 2024, and for further information visit https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/news/jobs/biodiversity-officer-at-the-heritage-council.
 Cork County Council’s Skibbereen Heritage Centre has uploaded a further 23,000 previously unavailable Cork County burial register records from 18 graveyards to its online database. This brings the total number of burial records now available on their website www.skibbheritage.com to over 82,700, all of which are available to access free of charge from anywhere in the world.
This latest upload includes graveyards from West and East Cork as well as the Macroom and Carrigaline areas, with some records from North Cork available for the first time too.
The digitisation project is supported by Cork County Council and the small team at Skibbereen Heritage Centre have been diligently working on it for some years now, bringing these records into the public realm for the first time.
Speaking on the importance of making this information accessible, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr.Frank O’Flynn said, ‘We have received a phenomenal response to this project, with many people discovering their ancestor’s forgotten final resting place. It really means a lot to those researching their Cork ancestry from around the world, and many of these enquiries have brought visitors to the area to visit their ancestral burial ground.’
All of the information is on the Skibbereen Heritage Centre website www.skibbheritage.com, including a map of all the sites covered to date as well as a searchable database. With the support of Cork County Council, Skibbereen Heritage Centre hope to continue this project over the 2024/25 winter period to upload more records next spring, primarily from the North Cork area.
Skibbereen Heritage Centre staff have also produced a series of genealogy podcasts which cover how to search for burial records not included in this database. These podcasts are also available to access free of charge on the Skibbereen Heritage website.
 The Irish Georgian Society wishes to invite you to apply for its Architectural Conservation & Original Drawing Awards 2024.
These awards were established in 2010 to encourage excellence in the area of conservation and to celebrate conservation professionals and practitioners responsible for projects of merit. Past winners have included Riverstown House, Co. Kildare (2022), No. 3 Henrietta Street, Dublin (2019), The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin (2017) and The Guildhall, Co. Derry/Londonderry (2014), while in each year a number of projects have also received various commendations.
Applications for the 2024 awards will be accepted up until 12 noon on Friday 3rd May 2024. These will be assessed by an independent judging panel comprising Livia Hurley (Chair), Frank McDonald, Karen Latimer, Simon Lincoln, Kevin V. Mulligan and Andrew Tierney. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in the City Assembly House in October 2024 at which there will be an exhibition of all of the shortlisted applications.
Full details about the awards including the application form are available on the IGS website: https://www.igs.ie/education/awards/about-the-awards
The Royal Irish Academy seeks applications for this scheme which aims to expand the range of digitised historical and archaeological sources available through open and free access to researchers, for private study or education purposes. Applications close on Thursday, 11 April 2024.
See details and apply
Science Foundation Ireland have put out a funding call for public engagement projects that can connect people across society with science during Science Week, using innovative and creative methods. Science Week takes place from the 10-17 November 2024.
The application process for Events is open until the 15th of April and full details on the Call can be found here - https://www.sfi.ie/funding/funding-calls/sfi-science-week-call/.
The LAWPRO Catchment Support Fund aims to build the capacity of non-governmental organisations working in the area of water quality in Ireland by providing funding towards their core costs.
Who can apply?
The scheme is open to not-for-profit non-governmental water focused organisations with demonstrated catchment relevance. Full eligibility details are available on the LAWPRO website.
Funding available
Strand 1: This fund will support costs such as; insurance associated with catchment management, statutory and/or legal responsibilities, accounting, auditing, organisational promotional material and website costs, group development activities (e.g., Development of group plan/strategy; group management; governance assistance). LAWPRO envisage grant offers will range from €500 – €5,000.
Strand 2: This fund will support the organisation’s core costs. LAWPRO envisage the average grant offers for strand 2 to be in the region of €20,000 – €40,000. Applications above this will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Funding will be allocated on a competitive basis. This will be in line with the assessment criteria set in LAWPRO’s guidance documents.
Learn more and apply:
https://consult.watersandcommunities.ie/en/content/lawpro-catchment-support-fund-2024
All information must be received before Tuesday 16 April 2024. The portal will close at 5pm.
 Two large scale artistic features have been installed along the new N22 road between Macroom and Baile Bhuirne. The sculptural forms representing female heads were created by West Cork based artist Sarah Goyvaerts and were commissioned by Cork County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland with funding from the Per Cent for Art Scheme for the N22 development.
The first ancestral sculpture ‘The Bronze Age Girl’ represents a young female whose remains were found in a burial site during the archaeological works for the N22 development, having been cremated and buried with considerable care and effort at Kilnagurteen some 3,500 years ago. The second ancestor represents the mythical goddess Áine, who is associated with fertility, abundance, and the midsummer point of the year.
‘Áine’ is located on the raised verge facing oncoming westbound traffic in the townland of Coolavokig and has been positioned to face the Summer Solstice sunrise. ‘The Bronze Age Girl’ is located on the raised verge facing oncoming eastbound traffic in the townland of Carrigaphooca and is lined up to face the Winter Solstice sunset. The sculptures were created in ferrocement over a mesh and stainless-steel framework and include natural pigments distilled from rocks found in the Baile Bhuirne area.
Welcoming the installation of the artworks, Mayor of the County of Cork, Frank O’Flynn said, ‘As we unveil these captivating sculptures along the N22 development, we are celebrating the many benefits that the Macroom to Baile Bhuirne bypass has brought to the community, paving the way for future growth, while also looking to our past. Sarah Goyvaerts and her creative team have brought history and myth to life. These pieces not only beautify the landscape but also serve as a testament to our cultural legacy, marking our relationship to place and keeping our stories alive.’
Speaking of her work, artist Sarah Goyvaerts says, “The sculptures serve as an acknowledgement of the deep ancestral connection and relationship to the land that is at the very core of the Múscraí’s cultural creativity and spirit of place. By drawing awareness from the wider cultural landscape of the Paps, through to the archaeological discoveries made in the course of the construction of this road, my hope is that the sculptures will act as a starting point, carrying the story of connection between the tangible and intangible, the connection between people and place that is intrinsically woven into the very fabric of the communities in Múscraí today. These sculptures are intended as a bridge linking the present day to the past, giving face to the ancestors as a mystical presence held in the landscape.”
This public art project has seen creative engagement with local communities and a podcast series entitled ‘Céimeanna - Tales and Trails’. When making the accompanying podcast Sarah Goyvaerts and Pádraig Ó Duinnín recorded conversations with people in Múscraí with knowledge or stories to tell about the area along the N22 development. The podcast explores connections between placemaking, collective memory, storytelling, and the environment. The series is available on the ‘Céimeanna’ Instagram and YouTube channels.
Ahead of the installation, artist Sarah Goyvaerts said of the Per Cent for Art Commission: “I’m excited for the public to finally see ‘The Bronze Age Girl’ and ‘Áine’ ancestor sculptures. It was a privilege to create works for a part of the county that I’m very familiar with.
 Taking place on Friday, the 20th of September this year, Culture Night / Oíche Chultúir is an annual all-island public event celebrating culture, creativity and the arts. The initiative seeks to actively promote the belief that our rich and varied culture is alive, treasured and nurtured in people’s lives every day.
Special and unique events and workshops are specifically programmed at participating locations and thanks to the continued support of The Arts Council and local authorities across the island of Ireland, all activities are made available to the public free of charge.
Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service is inviting arts organisations, community groups, artists and others to submit proposals for events that will be programmed as part of Culture Night 2024. Cork County Culture Night will take place in the 17 Culture Night Hub Towns of Fermoy, Mitchelstown, Mallow, Charleville, Clonakilty, Skibbereen, Bantry, Bandon, Kinsale, Carrigaline, Passage West, Macroom, Baile Mhuirne, Midleton, Youghal, Cobh and Watergrasshill, as well as on the islands and in other locations across the county.
Welcoming the call for creative proposals, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O’Flynn commented, ‘Over the past number of years Culture Night has brought together voluntary organisations from brass bands to youth theatres, established arts centres, music venues, artists, and other cultural spaces, to showcase the diverse and rich cultural offering our county boasts. We look forward to hearing from the wider cultural community and encourage all those interested in delivering events to submit a proposal.’
For Culture Night 2024, Cork County Council will support events that provide opportunities for families, youth audiences, adults, and older people to participate. Collaborations between local groups proposing town programmes will be welcomed. Initiatives that have the capacity to animate public spaces in innovative and creative ways are also sought. There are a limited number of grants available to support the delivery of events throughout the county.
Further information and application details are available at the link below.
The deadline for submission of proposals to Culture Night 2024 is 5.00pm on Tuesday the 19th of April 2024. Applications must be submitted online and late applications cannot be considered.
https://www.yourcouncil.ie/service/Culture_Night_Expression_of_Interest
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, in association with the Managing Director of SuperValu, Mr. Ian Allen, has today (March 23rd, 2024) launched the 2024 SuperValu TidyTowns competition.
In place since 1958, the competition, administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and sponsored by SuperValu, has grown beyond a competition into a national sustainability movement.
Its success benefits towns, villages and communities all over Ireland in real and meaningful ways, making them more attractive and sustainable places for everyone.
Speaking at the launch of the competition in Abbeyleix, Minister Humphreys said: “I was delighted to visit Abbeyleix, Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2023 as we launch the 2024 SuperValu TidyTowns competition. This year we celebrate 66 years of this fantastic competition, which has become synonymous with community spirit right across Ireland. More than 30,000 volunteers across 1,000 active TidyTowns groups work tirelessly, day and night, to make their local communities better and more sustainable places to live, work and visit.
Last year, we were delighted to receive over 880 entries to the competition, and we hope this year even more towns will get involved and showcase their superb efforts.”
Minister Humphreys continued: “TidyTowns is all about people, places and possibilities. Everywhere is unique and the competition provides a platform to share what is best about communities across Ireland. This year I want to really encourage people to get involved, especially young people. Being part of your local TidyTowns group is a great way to transform your town into a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable place for everyone. I also want to thank our partner and sponsor, SuperValu for their continuing support and passion for sustainability. Over their 32nd years of sponsorship, SuperValu has done enormous good in towns across Ireland particularly in areas of biodiversity and sustainable living.”
Also speaking at the launch today, Ian Allen, Managing Director of SuperValu, said: “SuperValu Tidy Towns has become an integral part of community life in towns and villages across Ireland. It is a powerful, uniting force, which shows what can be achieved when communities work together towards the common goal of improving their local areas to make them better, more sustainable places to live, work and play. I have been particularly delighted to witness in recent years how the initiative has evolved to increase its focus on sustainable climate action and biodiversity projects mobilising thousands of people to make a positive and lasting impact in their communities. I am also deeply heartened by the mix of young and experienced volunteers ensuring that SuperValu Tidy Towns goes from strength to strength and continues to innovate each year.”
The Competition contains an impressive array of Special Awards such as the All Ireland Pollinator Plan Award, the Young Persons in TidyTowns Award, the Heritage Award and the Leave No Trace Award among others, which bring an added dimension to the completion and of course offer some fantastic prizes for winning towns.
Following on from last year’s inaugural Town Centre First Award, the category is continuing this year as an official Supervalu TidyTowns Special Award, to recognise exemplary efforts made by towns in driving forward town centre revitalisation in line with Town Centre First policy.
The closing date for receipt of entries for this year’s competition is Wednesday 8 May 2024. Entry to the competition will only be accepted by email to the tidytowns@drcd.gov.ie address. Entry forms for the SuperValu TidyTowns competition are available at www.tidytowns.ie and will be emailed to all registered groups.
Full details of the competition are available on www.tidytowns.ie or www.supervalu.ie.
The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, has recently opened an online survey seeking the views of the public to help finalise a new Tourism Policy Framework for the period to 2030. The online consultation is open until 26th April 2024.
While the tourism sector has faced incredible challenges in recent years, it has played a key part in Ireland’s economic recovery. The new Policy Framework will aim to provide the foundations to ensure this strong performance continues in the years ahead but also that tourism is founded on sustainable principles and plays its part in achieving national climate targets.
Speaking today Minister Martin said: “Tourism remains one of Ireland’s most important economic sectors and it supports jobs in every community across the country. In the coming months, I will publish a new Tourism Policy Framework to shape how our tourism industry develops in the period to 2030. In this regard, while I want to see the sector grow, I want it to do so in a manner that is consistent with our broader sustainability targets and ensure Ireland is a brand leader in sustainable tourism practices. The new Policy Framework will seek to support sustainable tourism development in communities throughout the country, protect our natural resources while also achieving a reduction in overall tourism sector carbon emissions. I urge everyone to have their say in this regard including those directly involved in the sector.”
This public consultation builds on previous focused sectoral and stakeholder consultation across the tourism sector. The questionnaire itself is primarily based on the guiding principles of the report of the Sustainable Tourism Working Group, established under the Tourism Action Plan 2019-2021 but also provides an opportunity for the public to provide any other views on what should be included in the new Policy Framework. Amongst the topics covered in the questionnaire are how to encourage tourists to visit less established destinations and to travel outside of peak season but also how to reduce the carbon footprint of the sector. Respondents are also asked their views on how to protect Ireland’s natural and heritage assets.
The full survey can be accessed at:
https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/TourismPolicy2024
The closing date for receipt of observations is 5pm on Friday 26th April 2024.
Update from Biodiversity in Schools:
The Pollinator Project is Ireland's largest and longest running pollinator education programme for schools, now in its 13th year.
Thanks to our sponsor SIRO, we have FREE workshops & FREE teaching kits for up to 4,000 young people across Ireland to help them become pollinator ambassadors for their school.
All schools can also take the Pollinator Pledge on our website for access to your FREE certificate, signage & classroom worksheets. Also available as gaeilge.
New for 2024, we’re also running a social media competition for schools and families looking for outstanding pollinator work. Prizes include a €500 biodiversity fund as well as our brand new Gold Bee Trophy for one lucky school!
Many thanks again to our sponsor SIRO, Ireland’s 100% fibre broadband network, connecting communities across Ireland.
Open to Pre, Primary, Secondary and Homeschools within ROI & NI.
For everything you need to take part please visit our website:
https://www.biodiversityinschools.com/pollinator-project.html
 Background: The Guidelines were developed for Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council) in consultation with Failte Ireland, DRCD, Leave no Trace, IAAT, Coillte, Sport Ireland, NPWS, Mountaineering Ireland, Local Authorities, OPW, Irish Uplands Forum, Irish Farmers Association and The Heritage Council.
Who are they for: individual, community group or event organisers that are involved in planning and implementing an outdoor activity event in Ireland.
Purpose: to provide a helpful roadmap to organise a successful and responsible outdoor activity event in Ireland’s countryside. Whilst encouraging outdoor activity we need to be mindful of our impact on the environment and the local community.
Resources within the Guidelines: In section 5 there is access to Templates & Resources including: Event Management Plan, Risk Register, Stakeholder Contact Sheet, Participant and Organiser Charter
The Guidelines can be downloaded here:
https://www.failteireland.ie/FailteIreland/media/WebsiteStructure/Documents/outdoor-activity-events/outdoor-events-guide.pdf
National Biodiversity Data Centre Update: ‘The National Biodiversity Data Centre is delighted to release a new free online training course on ‘pollinator-friendly farming’ aimed at farmers, farm advisors and agricultural students. The course aims to help farmers make their farms more pollinator-friendly, with information on what wild pollinators need, in terms of food, safety and shelter and what evidence-based actions can be taken to make farmland more pollinator-friendly.
We hope the course will give farmers an insight into the wonderful world of pollinating insects and why pollinators are so important on the farm and in the wider countryside. The course takes around 30 minutes to complete and is open to all.’
https://pollinators.ie/new-online-training-course-on-pollinator-friendly-farming-released/
 Update from National Biodiversity Data Centre:
Flower-Insect Timed Counts (FIT Counts) are an important way that you can help us monitor pollinators. Download the free FIT Count App, watch a 50x50cm patch of flowers for 10 minutes and count how many insects visit. You can carry out a FIT Count anywhere, and on any flower, but where you can, please use one of our 15 target flowers. In April, it’s especially useful to carry out FIT Counts on Dandelion. You do need to wait until it’s sunny and at least 13C though!
In 2023, 673 validated FIT Counts were submitted by 126 different volunteers. The average number of insects per FIT Count was 9. The most common insect group recorded were other flies followed by bumblebees then hoverflies. The most common habitat FIT Counts were carried out in was gardens. Visit the website to download the 2023 newsletter and see the full results of the scheme last year.
For more information visit https://biodiversityireland.ie/surveys/fit-counts/.
 National Biodiversity Data Centre Update: ‘Within the National Biodiversity Data Centre, we have been tracking bumblebees since 2012, through a citizen science scheme called the Bumblebee Monitoring Scheme. Volunteers within this scheme walk a fixed ~1km route once a month from March to October and count the number of different bumblebees they spot. Beginners are very welcome, but it does require a time commitment in learning how to identify the different bumblebee species. The scheme has been slowly building through our amazing volunteers, but we still need to add another 20 walks over the coming years. March is the best time for beginners to join, as in early spring there will be fewer different species for you to learn to identify. If interested in becoming a volunteer, you can take our free course in identifying bumblebees which also explains how the scheme works: https://biodiversityireland.ie/identifying-irish-bumblebees/lesson.html On an island scale, the scheme helps us understand if bumblebees are increasing or declining. At site levels, it's a great way to assess the impact of actions you are taking in support of the Pollinator Plan. If you decide you’d like to give it a try, please email me directly (ufitzpatrick@biodiversityireland.ie) so that I can add you to my mailing list to receive the Monitoring Scheme monthly newsletter with hints and tips’.
 National Biodiversity Data Centre Update: ‘We are delighted to also announce an update of ‘Businesses: actions to help pollinators.’
These guidelines were first published in 2016, in collaboration with Bord Bia. This new iteration provides further structure to the AIPP evidence-based actions particularly in relation to ‘communications and governance’, as businesses increasingly move towards nature-positive. The guideline also includes a new voluntary scoring system to help businesses track their progress.’
https://pollinators.ie/new-pollinator-plan-guidelines-for-business/
 National Biodiversity Data Centre Update: ‘We are delighted to release an update of ‘Local Communities: Actions to Help Pollinators’. This free guideline provides simple, evidence-based recommendations for community groups on how to help pollinators and biodiversity. The guidelines are now also available in Irish, thanks to funding from the Tidy Towns Local Authority Pollinator Award steering group.
Building on the recommendations in the previous guidelines, the new guidelines include up to date advice on what pollinators need and how to support them based on the latest scientific evidence. Communities can choose from 24 actions across themes such as meadows, nesting habitat, and pesticide elimination. The guideline also includes a new voluntary scoring system to help communities track their progress’.
https://pollinators.ie/new-pollinator-plan-guidelines-for-local-communities/
The EPA Research Call 2024 will provide up to €14.5m to fund innovative research projects that will support policy- and decision-making addressing environmental, climate change and sustainability challenges. Applications for the 2024 EPA Research call are invited under 13 broad themes that will address current and emerging policy needs and build capacity in relevant areas. It is envisaged that multiple projects will be supported in each theme.
Key dates for the call are:
Call open for applications: 4 April 2024
Information Webinar: 17 April 2024
Technical Query deadline: 23 May 2024
Applicant submission deadline: 30 May 2024 (16:00 Irish standard time)
Authorisation deadline: 6 June 2024 (16:00 Irish standard time)
Research Themes
- Global risks to Ireland achieving its climate and environmental goals
- Social science, citizen science and behavioural science for climate action
- Understanding vulnerabilities, risks and adaptation measures at the local level
- Towards zero pollution
- Chemicals that are safe and sustainable by design
- Future understanding the health impacts of a changing environment
- Integration of the circular economy and bioeconomy into climate and biodiversity measures
- Enhancing the assessment of materials, products and value chains in the circular economy in Ireland
- Supporting and scaling up the just transitions to the circular economy
- Integrating nature into decision-making
- Implementing effective protect and restore solutions
- Supporting the transition to sustainable land use planning and management
Learn more:
https://www.epa.ie/our-services/research/epa–research-funding/epa-research-call/
Malcolm Noonan TD, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform has launched new guidance to support energy upgrades in traditional buildings. Primarily aimed at the specifiers and installers of retrofitting projects, the guidance will also be of interest to owners, occupiers and other custodians of historic buildings - both residential and non-residential – who want to increase the comfort in these buildings while reducing their energy usage, energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions. The guidance will greatly assist in the regeneration of historic buildings in our towns, cities and countryside, enabling disused or underused buildings to be brought back into use.
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, said: “We’re seeing lots of demand for renovations including energy upgrades to bring older building stock back into use. This guidance means that more of these types of buildings can now be brought up to better energy efficiency standards and in turn, make them more comfortable places to live. As these types of buildings are often located in our towns and cities, this guidance can also help to support our efforts to revitalise town centres and address vacancy. By sensitively upgrading our historic buildings, we not only protect their architectural heritage value, but improve the comfort and quality of life for occupants and enable vacant properties to be brought back into use. In addition, we can reduce the energy use of these buildings which is an important step in meeting our climate targets.”
The guidance will assist specifiers and installers by providing practical advice on how to make the right decisions when undertaking retrofitting works to traditional buildings. It explains how these buildings work, how to assess their performance and how to plan for climate change. Advice is given on options for upgrading the different elements of the building fabric, and what to take into consideration when upgrading existing services or choosing a new energy system, including renewable energy, for a traditional building.
In Ireland, traditional buildings are built with solid, load-bearing masonry walls, single-glazed windows and timber-framed roofs. This type of construction was used in the majority of buildings built in this country before c.1940 and forms a significant component of our built environment.
Traditional buildings form the core of our cities and towns, and populate the countryside. They can be landmark buildings of high heritage significance, simple single-family dwellings and any building type in between. Their continued existence as the backdrop to our everyday lives plays a key role in our cultural heritage, our identity and sense of place.
Special care is required when undertaking building or energy upgrade work to building stock of this nature. The guidance will assist the custodians of traditional buildings in increasing energy efficiency in ways that protects the character of the buildings while also avoiding potential damage to the fabric of the buildings and the health of their occupants.
Guidance: Improving Energy Efficiency in Traditional Buildings, Guidance for Specifiers and Installers, 2023
The guidance is published by the National Built Heritage Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the Climate Action Plan 2023.
Update from the Arts Council:
The deadline for the Creative Schools 2024 Opportunity is quickly approaching – 2 May 2024 at 5:30pm.
As part of a two-year guided journey, schools will develop a Creative Schools plan that is unique to their own school. The Arts Council is offering three main practical supports:
- A Creative Associate to work with you to support your Creative Schools journey for the academic years 2024-25 and 2025-26
- Training
- €4000 grant towards activity arising from your Creative Schools Plan
An informational newsletter went out in March to all schools in Ireland. It is a great resource that we encourage you to share via the following link – https://mailchi.mp/artscouncil/registration-for-creative-schools-2024-is-now-open-10285336
All information is available on our Schools Hub – from clinic dates, FAQ, links to guidelines and the application portal, and more!
If you have any queries please feel free to get in touch directly or at creativeschools@artscouncil.ie.
Tá Leabharlann Mhala ag súil le Ciorcal Comhrá meánleibhéal a bhunú. Má tá suim agat déan teaghmháil le foireann na Leabharlainne le do shonraí teaghmhála.
Mallow library is hoping to set up an intermediate level group Ciorcal Comhrá. If you have interest, please get in touch with Library staff with your contact details.
Mallow Library | Cork County (corkcoco.ie)
 Wildwalls is a nature-themed design competition that asks young people across Ireland to creatively reimagine spaces for nature.
Students are invited to design a wall mural for their school that raises awareness of biodiversity but also integrates features to support local wildlife. Being creative with small, over-looked or even vertical spaces is essential and especially for schools where space can be very limited.
There’s €5,000 worth of prizes available including a school mural by a professional artist, indoor vertical garden system, wildlife signs, workshops and teaching kits.
Categories open to pre, primary, secondary and homeschools in Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
To download an entry sheet and FREE poster/ nature trail sheet visit https://www.biodiversityinschools.com/wildwalls.html.
 Date/Time: March to June 2024, Monday to Friday 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00
Event: Cork and the First World War - Exhibition at Cork City and County Archives
Location: Cork City and County Archives, Séamus Murphy Building, Great William O’Brien Street, Blackpool, Cork.
Additional Information:
Documents, photographs, and memorabilia from the collections of Cork City and County Archives Service relating to Cork and the First World War are on display at the Cork City and County Archives. Themes explored include A Sea-faring City, Economic Impact, Enlistment and Anti-Conscription, and Those Who Served. The exhibition also features 30 minutes of original First World War film footage from the Imperial War. Free entry and see poster for more information.
Date/Time: Friday 5th to Thursday 25th April 2024
Event: - Exhibition: Hidden Gems and Forgotten People
Location: Bishopstown Library, Wilton, Cork
Additional Information: The Federation of Local History Societies is holding a Photographic Exhibition called ‘Hidden Gems & Forgotten People’, which will run in the Bishopstown Library, Wilton, from Friday 5th April - Thursday 25th April, 2024.
“This exhibition is a unique collection of images and text representing what we call Hidden Gems & Forgotten People. Its purpose is to draw attention to and celebrate some of the lesser known but interesting places and buildings in our island.
Those often overlooked in tourist brochures or guided tours and of the many interesting and often inspiring individuals not known outside their own locality whose stories are untold of forgotten.
The website from which these examples are taken is an open-ended project in that we intend to continue to add new places and people as they are identified and passed on for inclusion.”
 Date/Time: Saturday 6th to Saturday 27th April 2024
Event: - Exhibition: Rooted Harmony
Location: Gallery Asna, Clonakilty Arts Centre, Clonakilty, Co. Cork
Additional Information: Gallery Asna is delighted to open the April exhibition 'Rooted Harmony' in what promises to be a diverse and exciting exhibition. Clonakilty Artists Group was formed out of an open meeting every Thursday organised by Clonakilty artist Jacinta Darragh. During this weekly meetup local artists create, discuss art and socialise in the studio space at the Clonakilty Community Art Centre. All welcome.
 Date/Time: Thursday 11th April 2024 from 11:00 t 16:00
Event: Genealogy and Archives Day
Location: Cork City and County Archives, Séamus Murphy Building, Great William O’Brien Street, Blackpool, Cork.
Additional Information: Cork Lifelong Learning Festival @ Cork City and County Archives: Genealogy and Archives Day.
Learn from genealogists and archivists about researching your family history and preserving your family archive. Booking required – email archivist@corkcity.ie or phone 021 4505876. See poster for more details.
Date/Time: Sunday 14th April 2024 at 14:00
Event: - Kilbonane Graveyard – Guided Talk
Location: Kilbonane Graveyard, Kilmurry, Co. Cork
Additional Information: Independence Museum Kilmurry has introduced a series of guided talks in local cemeteries by members of KHAA (Kilmurry Historical and Archaeological Association). Beginning with St. Mary's graveyard in Kilmurry ('The old graveyard') last year, the next talk takes place at Kilbonane Grabeyard on Sunday 14th April.
This free guided tour will feature stories about some of the interesting people who are buried there, such as Eddie O'Riordan who made the hurleys for the Cloughduv Hurling team. Noted local historian and author Seán Crowley will recall the history of Kilbonane and tell it’s fascinating story. At the conclusion, Ted O'Mahony of Aherla will sing the Cloughduv Anthem 'Hand me down my hurley'. Everyone is welcome.
Date/Time: Thursday 18th April 2024 at 20:00
Event: - Illustrated Talk: Cork’s Rich Archaeological Heritage
Location: Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery, Co. Cork
Additional Information: Rosscarbery History and Heritage Society will present a talk by Mary Sleeman, retired County Cork Archaeologist, on the understanding and preservation of County Cork’s rich archaeological heritage. The talk will take place at 8pm in the Celtic Ross Hotel. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Date/Time: Monday 22nd April 2024 at 19:30
Event: - Illustrated Talk by Leo McMahon
Location: Temperance Hall, Kinsale, Co. Cork
Additional Information: Kinsale History Society will present a talk by Leo McMahon on Monday 22nd April. Leo is a journalist and wrote for the Southern Star for a year. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Date/Time: Wednesday 15th May 2024 from 14:00 – 17:30
Event: - Oral History Training – Interview Skills
Location: Cork City
Additional Information: The Oral History Network of Ireland’s popular Interview Skills workshop is back in-person in Cork city on 15 May. It follows on from the introductory workshops and focuses on developing the key skills required to conduct the best possible oral history interview. €35 for OHNI members or €55 for non-members. Registration open at:
https://oralhistorynetworkireland.ie/event/interview-skills-workshop-2.
For those not already a member or interested in joining, visit:
https://oralhistorynetworkireland.ie/membership.
For queries on any of the above or heritage queries in general email:
corkheritage@corkcoco.ie
|
