Climate Action Summer Works Scheme to benefit 14 Donegal schools

The Department of Education has confirmed funding approvals for 14 schools across County Donegal under the latest tranche of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.

The funding will support 229 school projects nationwide, addressing essential building and infrastructure needs while improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

The schools approved in Donegal are Scoil Cholmcille, Newtoncunningham; Scoil An Linbh Íosa, Killymard; SN na Carraige, Carrick; S.N. Naomh Baoithín, St. Johnston; St. Macartan's Central School, Bundoran; St. Conal's, Portnoo; Scoil Mhuire, Glenties; Holy Family National School, Ballyshannon; Crana College, Buncrana; Gairmscoil Chú Uladh, Gaelcholáiste Béal an Átha Móir, An Clochán (Ballinamore); Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada, Árainn Mhór; Magh Ene College, Bundoran; Pobalscoil Chloich Cheannfhaola, Falcarragh and Coláiste Cholmcille, Ballyshannon

Pat the Cope Gallagher TD of Fianna Fáil has warmly welcomed the announcement, saying: "I am delighted to see 14 schools throughout Donegal receiving approval for important projects under the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme. This funding will assist schools in carrying out much-needed improvement works while also enhancing energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and improving the learning environment for pupils and staff."

"The range of projects approved, including roof replacement works, electrical and mechanical upgrades, window replacement programmes and improvements to toilet facilities, will help future-proof these schools and ensure they can continue to provide high-quality educational facilities for our young people. The precise works to be carried out and the level of funding awarded in respect of each school will be confirmed to the school authorities at an early date."

Deputy Gallagher notes that schools from all parts of the county have benefited from the latest round of approvals, reflecting the significant infrastructure needs that exist across the education sector.

"I particularly welcome the Department's continued commitment to supporting schools through this multi-annual programme of investment,” he continued. “These projects will not only address longstanding building maintenance requirements but will also contribute to national climate action objectives through improved energy performance and reduced operational costs."

Deputy Gallagher acknowledged that some schools in Donegal will understandably be disappointed not to have been included in this tranche of approvals.

"While I warmly welcome today's announcement, I recognise that there will be school communities who will be disappointed that their applications were not successful on this occasion,” he said. “I will continue to engage with the Department of Education and do my utmost to ensure that schools not included in this tranche will be considered favourably in future rounds of the scheme.

"I want to congratulate each of the schools that have secured approval under this year's scheme. This investment is good news for students, teachers, parents and local communities, and I look forward to seeing these important projects progress in the months ahead."