According to CNN, new opportunities are emerging for those dreaming of a simple rural life, away from the chaos of modern living.
“Ireland Will Gift You $90,000”
The Republic of Ireland, a country in Northwestern Europe, has recently announced plans to revitalize over 20 quaint islands off its west coast, including Inis Mór, known for its stunning scenery featured in the hit Hollywood film “The Banshees of Inisherin.”
A scene from the movie “The Banshees of Inisherin.”
According to Airports India, the phrase “Ireland Will Gift You $90,000” is now trending. The country will offer up to $92,000 (2.16 billion VND) to individuals willing to renovate abandoned or unowned homes on the islands and live there.
This initiative, named “Our Living Islands”, aims to rejuvenate the communities on Ireland’s islands, which are struggling with declining populations.
Specifically, if you relocate to one of the islands included in the program, you will receive an initial grant of $22,000 (517 million VND). This amount will assist you in purchasing or renovating a home on the island.
In the following five years, you can receive up to an additional $70,000 (approximately 1.65 billion VND). Payments will be disbursed in installments.
However, the program comes with certain conditions. For instance, individuals applying to move to the island must be under 45 years old, receive a full-time job offer on the island, and commit to living there for at least five years.
The islands included in the program are: Aran Islands, Beara Island, Inishbofin, Inisherin, Inishmore, Inishturk, and Tory Island.
Individuals willing to move to one of the islands in the program will receive up to $92,000 (2.16 billion VND).
What is island life like?
According to the Irish government’s website, the coastal islands and their communities are an integral part of Ireland’s structure. They are also a vital part of the state’s heritage and hold special significance in Irish culture.
Good transportation services and developed infrastructure are seen as essential conditions for sustaining communities on the islands.
Previously, in an article published in Newstalk, writer James Wilson described life on the islands of Ireland as presenting certain challenges but also being “a wonderful experience.”
During the summer, the Aran Islands attract many tourists eager to experience island life and the rich Gaelic culture thriving there. Most residents on the islands have access to the usual conveniences of modern life, such as electricity, television, and internet connectivity.
Life on the islands in Ireland is considered to have certain challenges but offers a great experience.
However, in winter, things change. Life on the island can face obstacles, and sometimes locals are cut off from the mainland for days due to bad weather.
Islands like Inis Meáin often struggle to attract young families. The community development organization in Inis Meáin has had to hold competitions to encourage population growth on the island.
Claire de Haas and Brock Montgomery, who spent the summer on An Blascaod Mór, reported that the place is much more beautiful than they imagined, but the storms that come can be quite intense.
“Life is tough, but the culture and the people are wonderful. Living here is definitely a challenge and not for everyone. The rainy, cold days on the island have their own uniqueness, and it is fantastic to experience that,” Claire said.
Meanwhile, Brock finds it special to be alone on the island: “You have plenty of time to find things to keep you busy; you just need a little time to adjust.”