'They are pillars of local identity,' says senator over Longford's preservation

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD was in County Longford last week to visit Abbeyshrule Abbey and St Brendan’s Church, Clondra, two flagship archaeological sites which have benefitted greatly from the Community Monuments Fund.

The Community Monuments Fund was first established in 2020 to provide investment in Ireland’s archaeological heritage. Over the past number of years, Abbeyshrule Abbey has received in excess of €200,000 funding while St Brendan’s Church in Clondra has received €173,000 from the Community Monuments Fund.

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In County Longford, this grant has supported the urgent repair and conservation of the towerhouse at Abbeyshrule Abbey and the medieval chapel at St. Brendan's Church, Clondra, in addition to conservation management plans for other archaeological sites and monuments. These were community-driven projects which have secured the monuments for future generations.

Minister O’ Sullivan highlighted the wealth of heritage sites that have been conserved through the Community Monuments Fund and Built Heritage Investment Scheme/Historic Structures Fund in recent years including Derreen House, Creevaghmore House, the Holy Trinity Church of Ireland in Tashinny and Clynan Mills, at Clynan Bridge, Tennalick.

Minister O’ Sullivan said, “I’m delighted to be in County Longford to see at first-hand the incredible work being carried out at sites like Abbeyshrule Abbey, St Brendan’s Church in Clondra, and our historic houses. These sites are not only part of our shared history, but they also bring communities together and support local tourism and jobs. I want to thank everyone in Longford for their dedication to preserving these treasures.”

Senator Flaherty praised the Minister for the significant investment in County Longford’s archaeological heritage saying:

“These sites are not just remnants of the past- they are pillars of local identity, pride, and learning. By supporting conservation and repair, we’re ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and connect with our rich heritage as well as supporting skilled local craftspeople and fostering sustainable tourism rooted in our history.”

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, “The Community Monuments Fund and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme/Historic Structures Fund has invested essential capital in our valuable archaeological heritage and helped owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future for the benefit of communities and the public.”

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Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “Ongoing investment in our archaeological heritage is significant and will have a hugely positive impact on the communities who care for these monuments throughout County Longford and will ensure that our future generations can appreciate these heritage sites.”