Longford allocated €128,905 to protect two significant archaeological monuments

Longford has been awarded €128,905 to protect two significant archaeological monuments in the county. 

Abbeyshrule Abbey and Saints Island will receive €100,000 and €28,905, respectively, under the 2025 Community Monuments Fund announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan. 

Also read: Longford celebrates the arrival of 'Fraternity' Statue from beloved twin town

Allocated funding under Stream 1, the €100k for Abbeyshrule Abbey will go towards essential repairs and conservation works. While Saints Island received €28,905 under Stream 2 for the development of a Conservation Management Plan. 

Deputy Micheál Carrigy said he is delighted to see this vital investment coming to Longford. “Abbeyshrule Abbey and Saints Island are treasured parts of our county’s rich archaeological heritage. This funding will ensure their protection and preservation while also improving public access and understanding of these important sites.”

Deputy Carrigy added, “This announcement reflects the strong commitment to protecting Longford’s historical sites and supporting the incredible work being done locally by heritage groups, custodians, and the local authority. I will continue to work to ensure Longford secures the investment and support needed to preserve and promote our unique archaeological heritage.”

Also read: Longford Senator compares St Joseph's report to 2009 Cathedral Fire

Senator Joe Flaherty also welcomed the funding. “I’m delighted to see a €100k allocation for the Abbey project in Abbeyshrule. This is a great community initiative supported by a determined local committee, their councillor, Mick Cahill, and the County Longford Heritage Officer, Máiréad Ní Chonghaile.”

The ‘Abbey of Shrule’ in its present form was colonised by the Cistercians from Mellifont Abbey under the patronage of the O’Farrells of Annaly, although there may have been an earlier Christian foundation on this site.  The Cistercian monastery was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary around 1150AD and the construction of the current abbey itself dates to c.1200. 

Also read: Difference maker: Longford student recognised for his passion for promoting financial literacy

Senator Flaherty added, “There is also €20,805 in funding for the historic Saints Island on Lough Ree.  The island is located on the southeastern shore of Lough Ree, south of the village of Newtowncashel. A narrow causeway, in existence since the 1650s, connects the island to the mainland.”

The island (200 acres) is a rich habitat and breeding ground for a diverse range of wildlife and migrating birds in particular. The ruins of the Augustinian Priory of All Saints is located on the northwest corner of the island.

Also read: Road Tragedy: Teenage boy killed, second teen injured after tractor crashes in County Leitrim