A Donegal student has been honoured for her efforts to raise awareness about road safety.
Claire McCaul, Vice President for Education and Communications at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU), has been awarded the Road Safety Authority (RSA) Leading Light Award for Youth Road Safety Champion.
This prestigious national honour recognises her outstanding leadership, creativity, and commitment in delivering Road Safety Awareness Week at ATU Donegal, held in early 2025.
The initiative was developed in close collaboration with Donegal County Council’s Road Safety Officer and Donegal Road Safety Working group, following the identified need for renewed and meaningful road safety engagement aimed at those in third level education.
In 2024, 17 people lost their lives on roads in Co. Donegal, a further 55 sustained serious injury. So far this year, 11 people have lost their lives on roads in Co. Donegal.
Working alongside Donegal County Council, Donegal Road Safety Working Group and An Garda Siochana, Ms Mc Caul coordinated an interactive programme on the ATU Donegal campus that brought road safety education to life for students.
She said: “I’m genuinely honoured to receive this award. Road safety isn’t just a campaign topic for me, it’s something that affects every family and every community in Donegal
“Young people listen to each other, so if my work has helped even one person stop and think before taking a risk on the road, then it’s been worthwhile.
“I hope this recognition encourages more of us to speak up, look out for each other, and keep pushing for safer choices. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone that collaborated with me to make the week so successful”
Pamela Smullen, from Donegal County Council, attended the RSA Leading Light Awards Ceremony in Croke Park.
“I congratulate Claire on this well-deserved award. Her ability to work closely with official agencies and to encourage students through her role in the student union created a learning environment that engaged students and delivered important road safety education.
“The success of ATU Road Safety Awareness Week shows how collaboration and student leadership can make a real impact.”
