Just some of the Abbey VS support in Ballintra at the weekend. PHOTOS: Matthew Harvey
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26 Jan 2026
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26 Jan 2026
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Data released by the Department of Housing shows that in the last quarter of 2025, some €4,394,907 was issued in total grants to homeowners upon the successful completion of works
A total of €22.4 million has been paid out to property owners in Donegal under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant since it was initiated in 2022.
Data released by the Department of Housing shows that in the last quarter of 2025, some €4,394,907 was issued in total grants to homeowners upon the successful completion of works. During the same period, the scheme had 91 new applications, with 81 approved and two rejected.
Commenting on the figures, Donegal Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue said: “This is welcome news and I extend my thanks to the Housing Minister, James Browne, for his ongoing work in this area, and to Donegal County Council for the efficient manner in which it is administering the scheme.
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“Donegal continues to lead the way nationally when it comes to applications and grant payouts under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. Since the programme’s inception, Donegal County Council has outperformed every other local authority in Ireland, recording the highest number of applications of 1,430. It has granted 1,085 approvals and issued 396 final payments."
Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, property owners can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or former commercial building into their permanent home or a rental property. The grants are paid upon the completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork demonstrating that the work approved has been delivered.
“I encourage anyone in Donegal with a vacant property and who is eligible for the grant to apply. By turning empty houses into permanent homes, we are ensuring that our towns and villages remain vibrant places to live,” Minister McConalogue added.
Overall, since the launch of the scheme in July 2022, up to December 2025, 16,607 applications have been received, 12,096 approved and 4,514 grants paid out on completion of works to a total of almost €247 million.
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