Irish Environment Minister John Gormley has announced a €12.5m funding package to support built heritage projects this year.

Around €5.3m will be allocated to the Office of Public Works to support works on heritage properties in State care.

A further €4m will be awarded in local authority grants for the conservation of protected structures.

The Civic Structures Conservation Grant Scheme and the Significant Places of Public Worship Grants Scheme will receive over €1.7m.

Meanwhile, €850,000 will be given to fund the conservation and restoration of walled towns.

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"Continued investment in built heritage conservation is vital for the ongoing preservation of Ireland's renowned heritage," said the Minister.

This year's programme also provides continued support for a number of significant heritage properties held in trust or in private ownership.

These projects will be funded through the Heritage Council.

Minister Gormley said local authorities have a key role to play in progressing conservation programmes at a local level.

"Conservation of these buildings is a catalyst for regeneration of areas in some instances and is an important part in this programme to preserve our built heritage," he said.

The Minister also announced that the Civic Structures Conservation Grant Scheme will continue to be supported in 2009.

"I am awarding funding of €1.3m to projects around the country under the Civic Structures Conservation Grant Scheme.

"This scheme will provide vital funding for the conservation of structures of significant architectural heritage merit which are in civic ownership or occupation and open to the public," he said.

(PR/JM)