The Minister was marking the publication by the Follies Trust of ‘Knockbreda, its Monuments and People’, tracking the history of monuments and buildings in the area from the 1740’s.
In September 2008, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) provided £28,710 of Historic Buildings Grant Aid funding for the repair of the Rainey-Goddard Monument and the Gregg Monument at Knockbreda Parish Church.
At the launch of the publication Mr Wilson paid tribute to the work of volunteers involved in the conservation project and in the production of the publication.
The Minister said: “Everyone involved in this publication should be congratulated as they have produced a useful guide for future generations to local landmarks.
"Publications like these instill in communities a deeper understanding and a sense of pride in the built heritage around them.”
NIEA Director of Built Heritage Michael Coulter also welcomed the publication of the book.
He said: “This is an excellent reference source to the historic monuments of Knockbreda.
“These monuments are a key part of our historic environment and NIEA is delighted to be able to offer funding via the Historic Buildings Grant Aid Scheme.”
Changes to NIEA’s Historic Buildings Grant Aid Scheme last year mean that most listed buildings are now eligible to apply, increasing the number of eligible buildings by almost 50%.
Notes to Editors:
1. The Follies Trust was formed in 2006 by a group of people who share a passion for ‘a motley’ collection of unusual buildings which enhance our landscapes, towns and cities.
2. Grant aid is currently available from NIEA at 35% for works of maintenance or repair to the historic fabric of most listed buildings.
3. For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003 or out of office hours contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
