The Heritage Council has announced a €1 million scheme aimed at enabling community groups to protect wildlife in their areas.
Unveiled today, the Biodiversity Fund, provided by the Department of the Environment, aims to safeguard the future of animals, birds and plants that are under threat in Ireland.
Heritage Council wildlife officer Liam Lysaght
Ninety five bird species are in serious decline across the country, according to the the body.
At least 120 plant species are also under threat, and Heritage Council wildlife officer Liam Lysaght said that the fund would be used to enhance biological diversity at a local level.
"If we are serious about tackling biodiversity loss, action and responsibility has to be taken at a local level," he said. "This fund will be a great boost for local community groups, Tidy Towns groups, and environmental NGOs."
Dr Lysaght said a wide range of projects would be considered, with priority being given to sites containing habitats of special conservation importance or that support threatened or vulnerable species.
He added that the council was particularly keen for offshore island communities to seek financial support to preserve "the rich natural heritage" of Ireland's islands.
Application forms for funding are available from the Heritage Council or can be downloaded from the council's website on www.heritagecouncil.ie.
The council called for individuals, academic institutions, environmental non-governmental organisations and community groups to apply for funding for local conservation projects.
The closing date for applications is Friday February 10th, 2006.