When it comes to island nations, Ireland’s natural beauty is one of the best. On the top half of the British Isles, any resident can tell you about the soothing ocean waves constantly crashing the Irish coast. However, actually living on one of the Isles is not that easy. To a certain extent, there must be a sense of adventure to live out there. As such, maintaining the population on those islands and consequently securing the economy is an issue for the Irish government. That’s why they have rolled out the “Our Living Islands” initiative.
The purpose of the scheme is to revitalize the communities in about 23 islands. The initiative offers a grant of up to €84,000 or $92,000 to help people already preparing to live in any of the covered locations. In Irish, it is also known as the Croí Cónaithe scheme. However, even if the sum looks like a huge amount that incentivizes relocating to the islands, the truth is something else. As per the costs in the area, that sum is barely enough to cover the costs of renovating an existing structure on those islands. Anyone looking to relocate and build their own house would have to transport the building materials via boat. In that case, the offered grant would be a minuscule amount of help.
The Ireland Govt Project Is More For Renovation Than Relocation
As such, the initiative is not actually a subsidy for moving or relocating to the islands off the Irish coast. Regardless, due to global media misunderstanding it, the initiative has gained considerable exposure, since its July 1st, 2023 launch. The project covers about 23 islands and will run for a decade. Many of the islands become isolated daily due to the tides, do not have causeways or bridges connecting them to the mainland, have populations that are permanent through the year and are not privately owned. Renovation of vacant homes can get you a grant of about €50,000, while for derelict homes, the grant can rise up to €70,000. For anyone relocating to these islands using these renovations, the grants will rise to €60,000 and €84,000, respectively. However, the properties must be homes, not holiday rentals for applicants.
As such, the relocation and renovation package aims to offer adventurous souls a chance to do their part in preserving history and culture. It is ideal for anyone with a natural bent, looking to leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life. Of course, the natural scenes are not the only things on offer on those islands. They get around 300,000 visitors every year. You will also come across vibrant festivals and ancient ruins that will tell and make you experience stories passed down through centuries.
What Can You Expect?
Here are four of the remote islands that can provide a better outlook as to what you are signing up for:
Inishmore: This is the biggest Aran Island. Its rugged cliffs, Dun Aengus, and other historic stone forts, and amazing music scene are its highlights. However, it will also present a logistical challenge since it is fairly isolated.
Inisheer: The smallest Aran Island is known for its tranquility, traditional thatched cottages, winding lanes, and pristine beaches. The community you will be a part of is extremely close-knit but you will have to adapt your life around the ferry timings to the island.
Arranmore Island: This Island’s highlights are its maritime heritage and rugged beauty. Expect a slow pace of life and untouched landscapes as the scenes you experience every day. However, once more, life will depend on ferry timings, which the weather can wreak havoc on.
Achill Island: Achill is Ireland’s largest Isle. It boasts sandy beaches, coastal cliffs, and tranquil lakes. It also possesses a beautiful artistic community that thrives on local identity. However, educational and healthcare facilities are a bit of a challenge because of their remoteness.
So, do you find this probable life in Ireland enticing? Then, begin by thoroughly researching and choosing the island that will best suit your needs. After that, prepare the documentation according to the dates and criteria, and see if you qualify. Just a tip: visit the island at least once before deciding. Also, be ready to face challenges such as connectivity, logistics, and integration into an already close-knit community once you start your new life.
