Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed new figures showing that over €10.4 million has been paid out under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in the Galway County Council area since the scheme began in 2022.

The latest figures show that Galway County Council has received 771 applications, with 571 approved and 191 grants issued on completion of works, representing payments of €10,422,329.

During the third quarter of 2026 alone, 31 grants were issued on completion of works, with payments totalling €1.67 million.

In the Galway City Council area, 172 applications have been received, with 153 approved and 76 grants issued on completion of works, representing payments of €3.94 million. Of these, 11 grants totalling €578,976 were issued during the third quarter.

Across Galway City and County, 943 applications have been received, 724 approved and 267 grants issued on completion of works, with total payments exceeding €14.3 million since the scheme began.

Minister Canney said: “This is a scheme that I, along with the regional group of Independent TDs in opposition in the last Dáil, proposed and secured agreement from the then Government to enact.

“It is encouraging to see over €14.3 million paid out across Galway to help bring vacant and derelict properties back into use.

“We all know of houses in our towns, villages and rural communities that have been lying empty for years. This scheme is helping people turn those properties into homes again, while also tackling dereliction and breathing new life into our communities.”

Nationally, 7,162 grants have been issued on completion of works since the scheme began, with payments exceeding €396 million. Almost 20,000 applications have been received, with more than 15,000 approved.

The Vacant Above the Shop Grant has also attracted 78 applications nationally since its introduction earlier this year. 

Minister Canney added: “I would encourage anyone considering bringing a vacant or derelict property back into use, particularly in our towns, villages and rural communities, to explore the supports available under this scheme.”

Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, eligible applicants can receive up to €50,000 to refurbish a vacant property, with an additional €20,000 available for derelict properties, bringing the maximum grant to €70,000. Grants are paid following completion of works and submission of the required documentation.