From Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media
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The Minister of State for the Irish Language, the Gaeltacht and the Islands Seán Kyne has announced today, that he has approved a grant of up €169,151 or 95% of the total cost, whichever is the lesser, for Naíonra na hEachléime, to enable the construction of a permanent structure for the Naíonra on the same site as the primary school in the area.
The Naíonra has been functioning in a prefabricated structure on this site from 2012 and it is clear that this is not acceptable nor is it appropriate as a preschool by today’s standards.
“The approval of this grant is an indication that my Department is focusing on supporting Gaeltacht communities in greatly improving preschool accommodation in Gaeltacht areas this year and in the years ahead. It’s recognised that the Naíonra plays a vital part in adding to the children’s Irish language skills and that that link is essential in order for the acquisition and the enrichment of the Irish language to continue throughout the education system. I am optimistic that this grant will be of benefit to the organisation while they take an active part in the language planning process and in the general activities and events which they also undertake.”
“This grant will boost the construction industry in this area at a time when that industry is opening up again after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. In addition to this a contractor has been chosen and is waiting to begin these works. Summer is the best time to begin these construction works as the school on the same site will be closed.,” said the Minister of State
There is no doubt that Preschool activities will greatly support the aims of the Language Planning Process, in particular the activities relating to family, community and educational issues.
Under action 3.12 of the Action Plan 2018-2022, the maximum level of capital funding provided to early year’s projects under the Department’s Community and Language Supports Programme was increased last year from 80% to 95% of the total eligible costs to better support the provision of Irish-medium early years education in Gaeltacht areas.
This grant has been approved in accordance with a commitment made as part of the Community and Language Supports Programme under action 2.11, 2.22, 2.24 and 3.12 of the Action Plan 2018-2022.