Funding of €130k allocated for improvement works to make Keelogues Cemetery in Co Sligo fully accessible

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

News of an allocation of funding to the tune of €130,000 for Keelogues Cemetery under the Community Monuments Fund has been welcomed by Cathaoirleach of Sligo Drumcliffe Municipal District Marie Casserly who said the funding is, “An important step toward enabling the necessary conservation work to make the site safe, repaired, and fully accessible once again.”

The allocation is the maximum amount awarded to exceptional projects, as opposed to the normal maximum allocation of €100,000.

The fund enables essential repairs on monuments that are significant but in need of urgent support. It also helps sites withstand increased weathering and extreme climate events, which cause faster decay.

The allocated funds will also support the development of plans to identify necessary measures for preserving the cemetery’s historic structures.

The grants will help enhance public access, infrastructure, and information at sites, making them more accessible for families and visitors.

The initiative is designed to protect local archaeological monuments, as often seen with projects supported by Sligo County Council, through community-led efforts and professional conservation.

Cllr Casserly expressed her gratitude to all who have helped advance the project to this stage saying, “I would also like to thank local families, along with the Sligo County Council Heritage Office and council staff, for their continued efforts and commitment to protecting and progressing this important historic site.

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.