Future of the thatched roof 'in danger'

The future of the thatched roof in Ireland is in danger, according to a report published yesterday.

The report on the protection of thatched structures estimates that just 2,000 thatched roofs survive in the Republic.

It also highlights the documented loss of almost 40,000 thatched roofs in Northern Ireland between the 1950s and recent years. There are now just 150 thatched roofs in Northern Ireland, it says.

According to the Department of the Environment there are many reasons for the loss of thatched roofs. These include the loss of traditional skills and the fragmented nature of the thatching trade, as well as a widespread lack of knowledge of thatch materials and tools.

Against this a number of local authorities have commissioned inventories of thatched buildings in their areas and many are now listed for preservation.

The report lists useful information for owners of thatched buildings, including a list of thatchers, suppliers of materials and insurance companies prepared to take on the risk of a thatched house.

The report by Consarc Conservation Architects was commissioned by the Department of the Environment and its preparation was overseen by the Department of Environment in Northern Ireland, as well as the Office of Public Works, the Heritage Council and Wexford County Council. It is intended that the listing section of the report be constantly updated and offered as a reference for professional advisers in the building industry.

Launching the report Minister for the Environment Dick Roche said: "We must find ways to ensure the survival of this building form, seen nationally and internationally as part of what we are."