THE Government’s decision to cancel courses at Gaeltacht colleges this summer is a huge blow to communities across Donegal. Réamonn Ó Ciaráin is the Education Officer with Gael Linn, the organisation that operates the summer colleges in Magheroarty and Gaoth Dobhair. He said they are hopeful that the government will announce a support package to ease the financial burden.

“We expected that this would be the case. Our reaction is that we see the logic behind the decision and the safety of students, Mna Tí and the communities in areas where our colleges are has to be the priority of the government and the organising colleges. We are doing everything we possibly can to ensure that everything is in place so we have a good run at organising courses for 2021.”

Gael Linn was set to see record numbers attending their courses this summer. Between the two colleges – Coláiste Mhachaire Rabhartaigh and Coláiste Bhun an Inbhir – they welcome on average 800 to 900 students each year over five courses. They have 35 Mna Tí and the influx of students brings much needed economic activity for local business, restaurants and bus companies. The college at Magheroarty was set up in 1974. Gael Linn took over the Gaoth Dobhair college in 2007 just before the economic downturn and they are continuing to grow numbers there.

At a national level summer colleges generate over €50 million to the Gaeltacht economy. With an investment of between €4 million and €5 million from government they get a return ten times their annual input in terms of generating economic activity in these areas.

Mr Ó Ciaráin said while areas like Gaoth Dobhair and Magheroraty are very beautiful with an abundance of natural resources they rely heavily on this cultural tourism. No commitment has been given from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht  of a support package for the industry.

“We were expecting some mention that the government is looking to relieve financial burden in two parts – number one for the Mna Tí and two – the organisers who organise the courses. We are remaining optimistic,” said Mr Ó Ciaráin.

“We have not had anything in writing yet but we would expect some support package. I hope that we can bounce back stronger for 2021 with the help of all the partners who genuinely look to the Gaeltacht colleges as a win win for all. Students have a wonderful time and improve their Irish, local areas benefit financially and the government complies with its desire to promote our native language. We are hoping the right measures will be put in place so we will be able to come back stronger.”