A well-known historical building in Laois is set to receive funding for restoration works.

Donaghmore Workhouse and Agricultural Museum is set to receive €132,209 for the restoration of the building through the Historical Structures Fund.

This funding is for roofing repairs including re-slating, timber repairs to structure, structural repairs to chimneys and associated removal of machinery, renewal of leadwork and repair/renewal of rainwater goods.

Fianna Fáil Deputy Sean Fleming TD has welcomed this announcement.

"The buildings in Donaghmore are in public ownership and are historic structures and it is important that we preserve, protect and conserve this building and thereby enhance Ireland’s architectural legacy," Dep Fleming told the Leinster Express / Laois Live in a statement.

Pictured: File photo of Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum, Donaghmore.

"This facility has the potential to be an important tourist attraction in south Co. Laois and help bring people to the area.

"At the moment, a number of groups and people visit this facility and the more we restore and conserve this building the better this facility will be to attract tourists and visitors into the future," he said.

"I would call on the many people in Laois and surrounding areas who are not familiar with this facility to put it on their “TO DO LIST” and to visit Donaghmore during this summer," Dep Fleming finished.

Along with its operation as a museum, the workhouse regularly hosts groups, performances and reenactments. 

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, have announced €4.42 million in funding to be awarded to 40 projects under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2026.

“The award of funding under the Historic Structures Fund is a demonstration of our commitment to preserving and enhancing Ireland’s architectural legacy," Minister Browne said.

Pictured: Laois PPN members receiving a tour of the museum in 2025

“Along with the Built Heritage Investment Scheme, this Government is continuing its commitment to safeguard our built heritage, keeping many buildings in use and helping to bring many others back into use.

“The funding also supports the survival of the skills and expertise needed to maintain our built heritage and this will also have an economic benefit by generating employment for heritage contractors and other skilled crafts and tradespeople across the country," Minister Browne finished.

Minister O’Sullivan also welcomed the allocation of this funding.

“Communities across the country know the value of our built heritage, and many of them dedicate their time, passion and expertise to ensuring their protection," Minister O'Sullivan said.

Pictured: The museum's interior

"I’m proud as Minister for Heritage to be able to support their work through schemes like the Historic Structures Fund. 

"This grant can make the difference between a cherished heritage building falling into disrepair or being restored and valued as part of a thriving streetscape.

"I know this funding will have a huge impact around the country and I look forward to seeing the results for myself over the coming months and years," Minster O'Sullivan said.

This funding scheme operates on a match-funding basis with owners and custodians of historic buildings obliged to contribute towards the final cost of works.

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In March of 2025, Donaghmore Workhouse was awarded €200,000 through this fund for restoration works.

According to the Office of Public Works, the museum receives an estimated 2,500 visitors each year. It served as a film location for a recent Irish movie called The Light Within.