€482,000 in Community Monuments Funding for Wexford's Archaeological Sites

Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, James Browne TD, has today, Thursday 16 April, announced that Wexford will receive €482,664.25 in funding under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund. A total of eight projects in the county will benefit from these grants, which aim to safeguard Ireland’s archaeological monuments and improve public access to these historical sites.

The grants will support essential repairs, conservation works, and the development of management plans for several key heritage sites. Among the recipients are Ballycogley and Taghmon Castles, as well as churches in Ballyvaldon, Mayglass, and Ballybrennan.

Minister Browne expressed his delight at the significant funding allocated to Wexford, stating, "I am thrilled that we can announce such an important investment in the protection and promotion of our county’s archaeological heritage. This funding will ensure that these important monuments are preserved for future generations while also enhancing access for the public."

The Community Monuments Fund is part of a broader €8 million national initiative designed to conserve, maintain, and protect monuments across the country. This year’s increase in funding reflects a growing commitment to safeguarding Ireland's heritage, ensuring resilience against the impacts of extreme weather and climate change.

Funding recipients include:

• Stream 1 (Essential Repairs and Capital Works):
  • Ballycogley Castle - €116,127
  • Ballyvaldon Church - €130,000
  • Taghmon Castle - €100,000
• Stream 2 (Conservation Management Plans/Reports):
  • Mayglass Church - €20,479.50
  • St Mary’s Church - €29,520
  • St Patrick’s Church - €26,629.50
• Stream 3 (Access Infrastructure and Interpretation):
  • Ballybrennan Church - €30,000

Minister Browne also acknowledged the efforts of the National Monuments Service and Wexford County Council in administering these awards, highlighting the importance of the local heritage professionals who work tirelessly to protect these sites. He also commended private owners who act as custodians of many of these monuments, noting that the funding will help support jobs across the heritage sector, from stonemasons to conservation architects.

The Community Monuments Fund, established in 2020, is part of a broader effort to safeguard Ireland’s rich archaeological heritage. The funding will ensure these monuments are protected, while also facilitating public access and enhancing their presentation, including through virtual or online platforms.

This investment is just one part of an €8 million national initiative that will support 104 heritage projects across the country in 2026, contributing to the protection and promotion of Ireland’s historic sites for future generations.