203. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current criteria for acceptance of residential properties to the historic thatch grant scheme; the maximum funding available to households under the scheme; when he expects the scheme to reopen for applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48089/26]

The Historic Thatched Buildings (HTB) funding stream is a ring-fenced funding stream within the overall Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS). Applications are made to the relevant local authority, who administer the scheme on behalf of my Department. The maximum level of funding available under HTB is €20,000. It is important to note that this is a match-funded stream with applicants required to contribute at least 20% of project costs from their own resources. In practice, both HTB and BHIS are extremely competitive schemes and successful applicants may be required to contribute more than 20% of costs depending on the level of funding awarded.

Details of eligibility are subject to change with the terms of the scheme kept under ongoing review. The most recent relevant documentation is available to view at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/historic-thatch-grant/.

It is currently anticipated that window for applications for projects seeking funding for 2027 will re-open in July 2026, with a closing date in October for applications to reach local authorities.