The Minister said: “ The Cathedral is the only neo-classical Georgian Cathedral in Ireland and has huge historical and architectural significance for the City of Waterford.

“Following the refurbishment to the Cathedral it will be possible to use the area as an events facility and it will be a great asset to the City.”

Dean Peter Barrett described the Office of Public Works grant as ‘most generous’.

He continued: “Our vision for this historic place is as a centre for prayer and praise and in the same breath of the Spirit as it were, we seek to reach out to embrace the artistic, business, cultural, ecumenical and musical life of this ancient and developing City.

“In supporting the challenge of conserving this building, the Government is reflecting that which is commonplace elsewhere on the continent of Europe: namely, that our great buildings are not the preserve of any particular group or tradition, but are the heritage of the nation, to be richly shared and enjoyed by all citizens fortunate enough to have them in their midst.”

The phased Restoration Plan for the Cathedral involves works to both the interior and exterior of the building including the rebuilding of the existing Elliot organ. The Office of Public Works will manage the project.