The lack of availability of thatch materials has become a serious impediment to the survival of thatched structures in County Donegal.  Donegal County Council is undertaking a pilot project to grow and harvest thatch materials to support thatch repair and re-thatching projects in the county with three thatch growers.  As part of the Creative Ireland programme, the Conservation Office and the Heritage Office of Donegal County Council have commissioned three film-makers to produce a short film on each of the experiences of the three thatch growers. Two of the growers are growing flax in Inishowen and one is growing straw in Gleann Cholm Cille. The growers consist of a thatcher, an owner of a thatched property and a farmer who formerly grew straw.  It is hoped that the short films will encourage and inspire people to grow thatching materials to serve the need and demand in the county.  The short films will outline the process involved in growing thatch materials and will help to raise awareness of this issue that is affecting the future of our thatched buildings.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.