The government of Ireland has taken a new initiative to revive small, uninhabited or deserted islands in the country. As part of the ‘Our Living Islands‘ policy, anyone—whether they are Irish citizens or foreigners—can receive up to £70,000 (S$120,972) under this scheme.
However, this money is not being given directly for living but only to renovate abandoned or dilapidated houses. As a result, the government believes that the infrastructure of the islands will improve and create opportunities for sustainable settlements.
Specific Eligibility Conditions
To join this scheme, the applicant must own or be in the process of buying a house that was built before 2007 and has been empty for at least two years. Moreover, the house cannot be used as a holiday home. Instead, it must be permanently lived in or rented for at least 10 years.
However, if someone sells the house or stops using it as their main residence within five years, the full grant must be returned. If they sell it between five and ten years, 75 percent must be returned. Failure to comply with this condition will result in the grant being withdrawn.
Diversity of Remote Islands
There are currently only 23 of these islands off the west coast of Ireland. According to the 2016 census, the total population was just 2,734. Of these, the Aran Islands are the best known.
Interest in the three rocky, picturesque islands of Inishmaan, Inisheer and Inishmore is always high. But the most remote is Tory Island, which had a population of just 141 in 2023. Each island has its own culture, nature and a different experience of isolated life.
Netizens’ Reactions
As soon as the news of this policy spread on social media, many people expressed their excitement. Many commented that they would definitely like to apply and that living on such a peaceful island could change their lives.
Some jokingly said that they would be willing to live on the island for free if they got a little chance. Others commented that they would not hesitate to spend their lives on the island if they got 70 thousand pounds and some agricultural equipment.
A Long-Term Goal
However, the government says that if new settlements are not built on the islands, their very existence may be in danger in the future. So renovating old houses is the first step to increasing the population.
Currently, 35 applications have been submitted, and 22 of them have been approved. As a result, the initiative is already receiving a positive response. Besides, the houses that receive the grant will be habitable only after complete renovation, so this is not a quick-fix scheme.
Watch the video here:
@thisismoney The Irish government offers a grant of up to £70,000 to those who buy and renovate a derelict property on a remote offshore island, as part of the “Our Living Islands” policy 🏠🇮🇪 #ThisIsMoney #News #Money #Ireland
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