Almost 60 projects are up for approval in this round, with the Government providing over €800,000 in funding.

Speaking at the announcement on Wednesday, Minister Creed said that the GLAS programme is a great initiative for farmers and means old unused buildings can be put back into use for agricultural purposes.

These are beautiful structures, made of local materials by local craftsmen and I think we are all learning to appreciate how important this part of our heritage is

The projects supported

To date, approved projects have included restoration of traditional barns, stables, walls and gates.

Under the GLAS programme, participants can apply for funding for conservation work on traditional farm buildings and structures, yard surfaces, landscaping features and various other structures around the farm.

The main aim behind the programme is to safeguard historic farm buildings and features for agricultural use, which all protect the heritage of the landscape.

Over 500 applications for GLAS traditional buildings grants

11,500 make it into GLAS II

First projects approved under GLAS farm buildings scheme

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Creed announced this week that the first group of applications have been approved for the traditional farm buildings grant.