At an Údarás na Gaeltachta Board meeting in Cill Airne today (1 November), a number of projects were approved which will lead to the creation of 50 new jobs once the enterprise projects come on stream. Further information on these projects will be provided in due course.
The estimates for Údarás na Gaeltachta’s budget for 2014 was discussed. The Board was informed that Údarás na Gaeltachta’s budget for language, cultural and community development is to be reduced by 12% and that its capital budget, that funds for employment development and business infrastructure in the Gaeltacht, is to be reduced by 5%. The Board expressed its concern regarding the cuts and emphasised the importance of providing funding to Údarás to effectively continue its duties of language promotion and employment creation.
An Marglann, Gleann Cholm Cille, Co. Donegal
The Board was informed that the refurbishment of the old mart (An Marglann), an Údarás property in Gleann Cholm Cille, was completed at a total cost of €150,000. It was agreed that Unit B, An Marglann would be leased to Cairdeas na bhFidléirí. Cairdeas na bhFidléirí plan to develop a traditional music interpretive centre in Gleann Cholm Cille that will focus on all aspects of traditional Irish music, song and dance from Donegal.
It was also agreed that Unit A, An Marglann would be leased to Club Óige Ghleann Cholm Cille to help further the provision of facilities and youth activities in the area.
Club Dornálaíochta agus Aclaíochta Chonamara Teo, Casla, Co. Galway
The Board agreed to lease further space to Club Dornálaíochta agus Aclaíochta Chonamara Teo, a bxing and athletics club that are based in a Údarás building on Eastáit Tionscail Chasla and approved €10,000 for the necessary refurbishments.
Áras Éanna, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
€136,000 was approved for upgrade works to improve energy efficiency in Áras Éanna, the Arts centre in Inis Oírr.
Eagraíocht na Scoileanna Gaeltachta Teo
The Board expressed its concern over the decision to dissolve Eagraíocht na Scoileanna Gaeltachta Teo, especially in the context of plans that are being undertaken as part of the ‘20-year Strategy for the Irish Language’. The Minister for the Gaeltacht is to be made aware of the Board’s concern and its discussion on the matter.