A government initiative is breathing life back into Ireland’s offshore islands, offering generous renovation grants of up to €84,000 for anyone willing to restore and live in an old, abandoned property.
For many people, the dream of a quieter, more sustainable life by the sea can feel out of reach. But the Irish government’s Our Living Islands policy is changing that. Under this nationwide initiative, homeowners can receive substantial funding to renovate empty properties on some of Ireland’s most remote islands – places where Gaelic is still spoken, ferries set the pace of daily life and communities are eager to grow once more. Launched in June 2023, Our Living Islands aims to revitalise Ireland’s offshore communities by making them more appealing places to live, work and invest.
The program runs until 2033 and combines housing incentives with improvements to digital connectivity, transport, education and healthcare. In short, it’s not only about restoring buildings – it’s about restoring island life.
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A fresh start for Ireland’s island communities
There are over 30 inhabited islands off the Irish coast that are cut off by the tide or lack a bridge or causeway. Many of these communities have seen their populations dwindle over the past century as younger generations moved to the mainland. The government describes them as “an integral part of the fabric of rural Ireland” and hopes the new policy will attract permanent residents who can help preserve their culture and economy.
As the Our Living Islands policy document explains: “The economic value of the islands extends far beyond their own shores, with many towns and businesses on the mainland benefiting from the provision of services such as hospitality and accommodation to those en route to and from the islands.”
How the Irish island home renovation scheme works
The renovation grants are part of the Croí Cónaithe (Vacant Property Refurbishment) scheme, which was originally introduced on the mainland. It was later extended to include island communities, recognising the extra cost and effort often involved in restoring older buildings in isolated areas.
Depending on the condition of the property, buyers can receive up to €60,000 for refurbishment and an additional €24,000 if the home is deemed derelict. That brings the total potential support to €84,000 – a significant contribution towards creating a comfortable, modern home in a beautiful setting.
To qualify, applicants must purchase a property on one of Ireland’s eligible offshore islands. The home must have been vacant for at least two years and built before 1993. The funding can only be used for structural or design improvements that make the property habitable, such as repairing roofs, installing heating or upgrading insulation. Cosmetic updates like furniture or garden landscaping are excluded.
| Criteria | Details | Grant amount |
|---|---|---|
| Property eligibility | Must be located on one of Ireland’s offshore islands, vacant for two years or more, and built before 1993 | Up to €60,000 for refurbishment |
| Derelict property bonus | Applies if the property is structurally unsound or uninhabitable before works begin | Additional €24,000 (total €84,000) |
| Eligible improvements | Structural works, roof repairs, windows, heating, insulation, plumbing, electrics, design improvements | As approved by local authority |
| Ineligible spending | Furniture, fittings, appliances, non-essential decoration, landscaping | N/A |
Boosting population and local economies
The Our Living Islands strategy extends beyond financial aid. Its five core objectives are to:
- Revitalise population levels
- Diversify local economies
- Enhance health and wellbeing services
- Empower island communities
- Build smart, sustainable futures
These goals are supported by 80 actions coordinated by government departments and local councils. They include upgrading digital infrastructure, expanding renewable energy initiatives and improving transport links between islands and the mainland.
Crucially, the scheme also seeks to attract younger residents who can inject new life into small communities and local economies. While many existing islanders rely on fishing or tourism, the government is promoting remote work opportunities to make island living viable for professionals and families.
Where the opportunities are
Eligible islands include some of Ireland’s most beautiful and remote locations, such as:
- The Aran Islands – County Galway
- Toraigh Island – County Donegal
- Bere Island – County Cork
- Clare Island – County Mayo
Each island falls under a mainland local authority, which determines specific grant eligibility and manages applications. On these islands, properties range from abandoned stone cottages to century-old farmhouses, many in need of complete restoration.
While transport and supplies can be more expensive than on the mainland, the financial support makes such projects far more accessible.
For those seeking a simpler, slower lifestyle with strong community spirit, these islands offer a rare opportunity. Imagine owning a home where the Atlantic breeze is your morning alarm and neighbours greet you in Irish as you pick up the post.
A sign of confidence in rural Ireland’s future
The Our Living Islands initiative reflects Ireland’s broader push to repopulate rural regions and preserve cultural heritage.
Similar grants on the mainland have already prompted thousands of applications, helping to transform ghost villages and revive local trades. Officials believe the same model can bring long-term sustainability to island life.
With improved transport and digital access, more people can work remotely while contributing to local communities. For buyers dreaming of an Irish escape – and with a willingness to take on a renovation project – this scheme could be an opportunity to own a slice of island life and be part of Ireland’s rural revival.
