Ireland’s remote islands: Only 29 apply for €84,000 grant aimed at attracting residents – The Irish Times

Our Living Islands Scheme: Fewer Applicants Than Expected

Ireland's Our Living Islands scheme, designed to revitalize the populations of remote islands by offering grants of up to €84,000 for home renovations, has received only 29 applications since its June 2023 launch. This is significantly lower than anticipated, despite extensive global media coverage exaggerating the financial incentives.

Application Breakdown

Of the 29 applications, 20 have been approved. The distribution of applications across the 23 participating islands shows Donegal leading with 11 applications, followed by Cork (10), Galway (4), Mayo (2), and Sligo (2).

Challenges and Realities

While some islanders, like those on Arranmore, report increased interest and positive changes, the reality is more complex. Adrian Begley from Arranmore's community council points to challenges such as employment visas, planning restrictions, and transportation costs as deterrents. Furthermore, the scheme's requirements, including proof of property ownership and renovation commitments, are more demanding than the initial media portrayal.

• Misleading initial media coverage portrayed the scheme as a simpler, more lucrative offer than it actually is.
• Real-world challenges like visas, planning, and transport costs deter many potential applicants.
• The program's success hinges on more than just financial incentives; infrastructural and bureaucratic hurdles remain significant.