Funding for St Fin Barre’s Cathedral welcomed

St Fin Barre’s Cathedral

CORK South Central Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer has welcomed the allocation of €212,000 for conservation works at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral.

“The allocation of €212,000 for conservation works at St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is a welcome investment which will help preserve and enhance a key piece of Cork’s heritage.  I am pleased that the Minister for Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan, has recognised the significance of the cathedral to the cultural heritage of Cork.

“This funding will now facilitate significant emergency conservation works on the cathedral to proceed.  Included in the proposed works are internal conservation measures to the north and south transepts and external conservation measures to the western front, the main entrance to the cathedral.

“Works to the North Transept will permit essential repair works to the stonework and plastering eliminating the risk to the organ from dust and falling debris.  I am aware that St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral continues to seek financial support to carry out the complete conservation and restoration works necessary for the organ.

“The money assigned by the Minister comes from a fund which is specifically assigned for supporting conservation work to buildings which are deemed to be of significant special interest.

“The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage recognises the international importance of the cathedral, dating from the 1860s it is an iconic Cork monument.  The conservation of significant protected structures ensures that we preserve these important historical sites.

“Minister Deenihan has approved over €700,000 to protect vulnerable structures.  As well as the money for St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral €500,000 is being allocated to assist with works to safeguard at risk structures in 41 projects across 27 local authority.  Other Cork structures which will benefit from this fund include Shandon Tower and Alms House in Glanmire.

“Preserving our built heritage is an important factor in attracting tourists to Cork.  This funding will enhance some of Cork’s key tourist sites, delivering an improved experience for visitors.  In particular it will ensure that the splendour of St. Fin Barre’s cathedral is preserved for future generations.”