Ireland is offering up to 90.000 euros to people who are willing to renovate empty or abandoned houses on the country’s remote islands.
The initiative is part of the “Our Living Islands” program launched in 2023, with the goal of revitalizing island communities that have experienced a population decline.
According to the Irish Department of Rural and Community Development, the grant is available to those who commit to using the property as their primary residence and have the legal right to live in Ireland, which includes Irish and European Union (EU)citizens or those with valid residence permits.
An opportunity for a new beginning
The funding covers only renovation costs, with up to 50.000 euros available for empty houses and up to 84.000 euros for abandoned properties that require more extensive structural work. Houses must have been built before 1993 and be vacant for at least two years to qualify. According to media reports, the program is part of a broader 10-year strategy to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education on Ireland’s inhabited islands.
As stated, this is not a “free salary,” but an opportunity for a new beginning in a peaceful, picturesque location, while at the same time helping to restore historic houses and rural life. For those who dream of a peaceful island lifestyle, Ireland’s offer could be the start of something extraordinary.
Ireland like Italy
Among the islands is Inis Mor, where part of the 2022 film The Banshees of Inisherin, nominated for nine Oscars, was filmed. It is one of the Aran Islands, located off Ireland’s west coast. These islands often attract tourists because of their rugged landscapes and history.
Ireland’s plan resembles a similar Italian plan of selling houses in small towns for 1 euro to attract new residents. However, there has been a lot of criticism from people who bought a house for 1 euro about the difficulties and high renovation costs, N1 writes.
