Údarás na Gaeltachta renews bursary support for sustainable development in Gaeltacht regions for a third year
Údarás na Gaeltachta, in collaboration with University of Galway, has announced funding for two postgraduate bursaries worth €10,000 each for students enrolling in the University’s MA in Planning and Development programme this September.
The postgraduate bursary scheme was first launched in 2024 and is designed to support Irish-speaking graduates with an interest in contributing to the sustainable development of Gaeltacht areas.
Along with valuable work experience with Údarás na Gaeltachta, the bursaries will enable successful applicants to gain insights into the unique planning and development challenges faced by Gaeltacht communities, including those related to economic, social, educational, sociolinguistic and cultural development.
Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said: “We are delighted to support this innovative programme. It equips recipients with comprehensive expertise to address the planning and development challenges that public agencies face when implementing investment and development strategies in Gaeltacht and rural areas. By strengthening capabilities within Local Authorities and planning organisations, we are preparing the next generation of professional planners to champion sustainable development in Gaeltacht regions for years to come.”
Dr Thérèse Conway, Director of the MA in Planning and Development at University of Galway, said: “Having planners who understand the unique context of minority-language areas is central to the future of the Gaeltacht. These generous bursaries will support two Irish speakers to undertake the MA in Planning and Development, equipping them with both the planning expertise and language skills needed to meaningfully engage with and plan for these unique communities.”
Tomás O’Reilly 2025 Bursary Recipient said: ”Receiving the Údarás na Gaeltachta bursary has allowed me to apply the theory and practice from the MA in Planning and Development in a professional setting. As part of the bursary, I have been afforded the opportunity to complete a work placement in the Údarás office in Furbo. This experience provided an insight into how national, regional, and local planning policy can support the development and sustainability of Ireland’s Gaeltacht regions”.
The MA in Planning and Development at University of Galway prepares graduates for careers in land use and physical planning, surveying, community and regional development, and sustainable planning practice. This bursary offers a unique chance
for Irish-speaking graduates to contribute to the preservation and growth of Gaeltacht communities while advancing their professional qualifications.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday the 1st September 2026. To apply forward a Cover letter and CV to therese.conway@universityofgalway.ie
Cover Letter and CV should be provided in both Irish and English, with one copy of each.
For more information contact Dr Thérèse Conway, Programme Director, at therese.conway@universityofgalway.ie or visit https://www.universityofgalway.ie/courses/taught-postgraduate-courses/planning-and-development.html.