Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
732. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will examine the potential for supporting domestic reed harvesting for thatching, given that Ireland has abundant natural reed beds, yet thatchers are forced to import reed due to lack of capacity and support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40173/26]
View answerMy Department’s strategy A Living Tradition, A Strategy to Enhance the Understanding, Minding and Handing on of Our Built Vernacular Heritage, aims to significantly improve the prospects for our built vernacular heritage. Action 6 of the strategy is focused on the protection and conservation of historic thatched roofs, while Action 10 examines the current and future needs of vernacular building craftspeople, with specific reference to sourcing appropriate thatching materials.
My Department has begun work to improve the supply of high-quality native-grown thatching materials. Currently, there is a high level of risk for growers because of unpredictable weather conditions, shortage of labour and lack of a guaranteed market. New growers may be reluctant to enter the market as a result. Meetings have been held with thatchers and suppliers/harvesters to get first-hand contributions on the challenges with a view to finding a way forward. Growers highlighted a variety of issues, including weather, seasonality, pollution, access to labour, and ensuring buyers for their product.
As part of its work to implement A Living Tradition, my Department will continue to explore ways to improve the supply of high-quality materials, while continuing to support the market for such materials via thatching grants awarded under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) and other relevant grants and programs under its aegis.
