Cork County Council has announced €75,450 in funding under the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026, which will support 50 separate heritage projects and initiatives across all eight of the county's Municipal Districts.

Operated since 2021 with the backing of The Heritage Council, the scheme continues to provide assistance to projects dedicated to preserving and promoting County Cork's natural, built, archaeological, and cultural heritage.

The initiatives selected for financial support this year include:

• An oral history project documenting personal stories, lived experiences, and community connections linked to Camden Fort Meagher

• A history reenactment event commemorating the 425th anniversary of the Battle of Kinsale (1601)

• Conservation reports and condition surveys for St Anne's Church and Graveyard in Mallow

• A Natural Heritage Conference at Saint Georges Arts & Heritage Centre • Traditional heritage skills workshops hosted by the Clonakilty Woman's Shed, including basket making, lacemaking, and stained glass craft

• Community heritage events celebrating and documenting memories of Fair Day traditions in Cobh, Midleton, and Mitchelstown

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, welcomed the funding allocations, said: "Our county is home to rich and diverse heritage that plays a vital role in our communities and local identity. These grants will support dedicated groups and volunteers who work tirelessly to preserve and promote our heritage. The wide variety of projects being supported this year highlights the strength of community engagement with heritage throughout the county."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, added: "The County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme has made a significant contribution to local heritage projects since its establishment in 2021. The scheme continues to strengthen community connection and sense of place throughout the county. Cork County Council greatly appreciates the ongoing support of The Heritage Council in helping these valuable projects reach more communities each year."