Cavan and Monaghan craftspeople are being encouraged to carve out a career in built heritage.
The innovative educational programme aimed at preserving traditional building skills needed for protecting our historical built environment has this week reopened for applications.
This year, eight bursaries are available for people already working or studying in heritage skills and the construction sector.
The successful applicants will get the opportunity to hone their skills at a Summer School in Dumfries House Estate in Scotland, Winter School in Kilkenny, and industry placements across the island of Ireland.
Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of The Heritage Council, said: "It is timely that as we begin the second year of this important Programme, the Heritage Council has set out priorities for the next five years in our new Strategic Plan. It's a plan that places specific emphasis on the preservation of traditional building skills and the pivotal role that education will play in enabling these skills not just to survive, but to thrive. Sadly, many vital skills are being lost and the heritage and construction sectors are experiencing the impact of that loss. The continuation and development of the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme is a key element of addressing this problem and we look forward to deeper collaboration with our partners in The Prince's Foundation and Historic Environment Division."
For more information on the application process, criteria, dates, funding go to Education - All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme (princes-foundation.org) or contact programme co-ordinator Hugh Kavanagh via email: [email protected]
