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 the allocation of €258,618.79 under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund for projects across Galway East.
The funding will support a number of important heritage sites in the area, including €30,000 for Castlehackett Tower House, €100,638.99 for Kilcooley Church and Graveyard, and €99,986.45 for Killora Church and Graveyard under Stream 1, which provides funding for essential conservation and repair works to protect and preserve monuments.
In addition, €27,993.35 has been allocated under Stream 2 for Corofin Castle, supporting the development of a Conservation Management Plan to guide its long-term preservation and improve public access.
Welcoming the investment, Minister Canney said: “This is a really positive investment in Galway East, supporting the protection and preservation of some of our most important local heritage sites. These monuments are part of the fabric of our communities, and this funding will ensure they are safeguarded and accessible for future generations.
“It’s particularly important that we are not only investing in the immediate conservation of these sites, but also planning properly for their long-term future. This approach ensures these monuments can continue to be enjoyed and understood by local communities and visitors alike.”
The funding forms part of a wider allocation of €638,618.79 for projects delivered through Galway County Council, supporting a total of seven projects across the county.
Separate funding of €260,000 has also been awarded to projects in Galway City, further strengthening the protection and enhancement of heritage sites across the wider Galway area.
Minister Canney added: “Across Galway, this funding is making a real difference. It supports local expertise, community involvement and the long-term sustainability of our heritage assets. I want to acknowledge the work of Galway County Council, Galway City Council and all those involved in bringing these projects forward.”
The Community Monuments Fund provides vital support for the conservation, maintenance and promotion of archaeological monuments nationwide, with over €8 million allocated to 104 projects this year.
Galway projects supported under the Community Monuments Fund 2026:
Galway County Council (Total: €638,618.79)
- Ballinasloe Bawn Walls – €120,000
- Castlehackett Tower House – €30,000
- Kilcooley Church and Graveyard – €100,638.99
- Killora Church and Graveyard – €99,986.45
- Corofin Castle – €27,993.35
Galway City Council (Total: €260,000)
- Menlough Castle – €130,000
- St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church – €130,000
