Heritage projects get €3.2m funding

The Heritage Council has announced €3.2 million in funding for 377 projects aimed at protecting the environment.

The projects include those aimed at creating walking routes and heritage trials, restoring ancient woodlands and wetlands, protecting wildlife and running courses on traditional crafts.

The funding for the grants programme comes from the National Lottery.

"All of these projects will contribute significantly to the protection and enhancement of our national and local heritage," said Michael Starrett, chief executive of the Heritage Council.

"Heritage awareness is growing rapidly and repeated market research surveys and a huge demand for funding shows that people living in Ireland want to do more to enjoy and protect our rich heritage."

The Heritage Council is an independent statutory body established under the Heritage Act, 1995.