What is the EU Co-funded Just Transition Fund?
The purpose of the EU Just Transition Fund (EUJTF), co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, is to assist the territories most affected by the transition to a climate neutral economy. In Ireland this focuses on the wider Midlands region where there have been direct impacts from the move away from peat production and electricity generation from peat. We need to establish sustainable ways to support the livelihoods of the communities around Ireland’s raised bogs, while helping these unique natural habitats to recover and thrive.
What is Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme?
Under the EU Just Transition Fund, Fáilte Ireland has been tasked with the administration of €68 million for a Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme 2023-2026. Through this scheme Fáilte Ireland will invest in the sustainable development of tourism in the Midlands with the aim of diversifying the regional economy by creating jobs, supporting habitats and biodiversity and sustaining communities.
There are two main elements to the overall scheme:
- €38m towards the diversification of the regional economy through the sustainable development of tourism;
- €30m towards the regeneration and repurposing of peatlands through the development of a network of trails.
**above information taken from Failte Ireland’s website: https://www.failteireland.ie/Identify-Available-Funding/Just-Transition-Fund/About-EU-JTF.aspx
EU Just Transition Fund at Arigna Mining Experience
Arigna Mining Experience is delighted to announce that it has been awarded funding from the EU Just Transition fund in order to transform its exhibition area into a state-of-the-art, accessible learning environment. This funding, aligned with the goals of the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF), will enable the redevelopment of AME’s physical exhibition space to promote regional sustainability and cultural preservation in the shift from fossil fuels.
The project focuses on creating an immersive experience through advanced technologies, such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, interactive displays, and multi-sensory exhibits. These technologies will allow AME to present the history and heritage of the Arigna Valley’s coal mining industry in a way that is accessible and engaging for visitors of all backgrounds, languages, and abilities. The upgraded exhibits will showcase the area’s transition from a fossil fuel-dependent past to a sustainable future, emphasising local heritage while fostering environmental awareness.
By integrating digital and multi-sensory elements, the redesigned space will provide a comprehensive educational experience that aligns with the JTF’s sustainability objectives. The project aims to make the exhibition area a model of energy efficiency, minimising its carbon footprint while preserving the cultural and historical significance of the region. This initiative also supports the local economic transition by preserving and creating jobs, establishing AME as a valuable community and educational resource that honours the area’s legacy and promotes a low-carbon economy.
This project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union
