The Department for Communities (DfC) has welcomed the launch of the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme for the third year.

Developed by The King's Foundation, the Heritage Council, and Northern Ireland's Department for Communities, this programme invites seven aspiring craftspeople keen on heritage skills to work on historic buildings and sites across Ireland.

Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons said: "This programme has not only helped budding craftspeople hone their skills and build a career, it also supports the Department as we strive to preserve and restore our historic environment. Traditional skills such as blacksmithing, stone masonry and carpentry are essential for completing any conservation work to our heritage assets, ensuring they retain their special character for future generations to visit and enjoy.

"These skills are also in demand as we support communities in the regeneration and repurposing of historic older buildings for the benefit of local people. At the Department’s Heritage Skills Centre in Moira, students will have the opportunity to gain practical experience in traditional building skills, conservation and repair, as well as working towards a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Heritage Skills (Construction)."

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Starting in July 2024, this course is tailored to address the need for improving heritage building skills in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Those accepted will partake in a year-long program focused on collaborative learning, refining their heritage craft abilities, and gaining hands-on experience on historical sites.

Hugh Kavanagh, All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme Manager at The King's Foundation said: "We are delighted to be able to partner once again with the Department for Communities and the Heritage Council on this unique project. It has been so inspirational to see how the bursary recipients develop their knowledge of heritage skills throughout the programme, but also to see how the programme itself is continuing to build on its success in previous years. It’s a unique partnership that is making a real difference."

The course will help preserve skills that are at risk of being lost such as traditional carpentry, lime work, thatching, blacksmithing and stonemasonry. To ensure it is accessible to all, successful applicants will receive a full scholarship and will be provided with a monthly bursary to help cover the cost of travel and accommodation.

Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, said: "At a time when the supply of skilled heritage craftspeople is on the decline, it is imperative that we create a space for the next generation to learn, to grow and to flourish. The All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme stands as a beacon in preserving and fostering these invaluable crafts and is the only programme of its kind currently operating. By providing a platform for the course participants to hone their skills and elevate their craft, we ensure that our heritage continues to thrive and enrich future generations."

Applications for the programme are open until 22 April 2024 at 5.00pm.