Ireland
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The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has announced the approval of a capital grant totalling €230,495 for Coláiste Bhríde in Rann na Feirste, Co. Donegal.
The funding is specifically allocated to facilitate essential renovation and fire safety works at the recognised Irish language institution.
Founded in 1926, Coláiste Bhríde serves as a cornerstone for the promotion of the Irish language, hosting over 1,700 students during its summer courses alongside third-level students throughout the academic year. The investment arrives as the college prepares to mark its centenary anniversary this year.
The grant has been issued through the Department's Community and Language Support Programme, which provides capital funding to Gaeltacht committees for the development and refurbishment of community and linguistic facilities. The project aims to significantly enhance the college's safety and accessibility standards through several key improvements:
- Installation of a new fire alarm and emergency lighting system.
- Replacement of doors and windows.
- Construction of new ramps and accessible facilities.
- Modernisation of bathrooms for both staff and individuals with disabilities.
Minister Calleary, who recently published the Action Plan for Irish Language Public Services 2026-2028, highlighted the cultural importance of the institution: "Coláiste Bhríde will be celebrating its centenary this year, and I am delighted, as Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, to be able to support them with these renovation works at the college. Summer colleges have an important role in the language planning process and large numbers of learners from across the country come to Rann na Feirste every year to attended Irish language courses.
"I am committed to supporting Gaeltacht communities in developing high-quality facilities which will revitalise communities and the language. I am certain that learners, young and old, who visit the area, along with the local community, will benefit from this college's new facilities."
