Iontaobhas reveals a new scheme to support IME schools
Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta has already committed in excess of £1.5m in grants this year according to its Fundraising Manager (Dr Réamaí Mathers):
“We are happy but appreciate that much more is required to ensure the Irish Language community has as many opportunities as possible. It is to this end that this new scheme ‘An Sceim Scoilphobail’ has been initiated”.
He continued:
“The thrust of this scheme is to assist the schools and their immediate communities to think about taking the language into the wider community and to lay the foundation to support the pre-school, family services and other community services. If we are striving to establish Irish speaking communities to enhance the sterling work of the schools then these additional services are essential”.
The new scheme will enable local communities to acquire funding on a long-term basis through standing orders to provide these services.
The scheme has started in two areas, Cookstown in County Tyrone and in Castlewellan, County Down. These two communities are using the scheme to provide family services, pre-school services, after-school activities and classes for adults.
Réamaí concluded:
“All in the Irish language sector are working in this direction; working to establish and consolidate Irish speaking communities. These communities need these various services and it is crucial that they are available for them. Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta recognises the enthusiasm and determination of the two communities by establishing a fund and will support them the whole way”.
For further information about An Scéim Scoilphobail please contact:
Réamaí Mathers
Bainisteoir Thiomsú Airgid / Fundraising Manager
Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta
199 Bóthar na bhFál
Béal Feirste
BT12 6FB
Guthán / Phone:+44(0)28 9024 1510
Facs / Faxs: +44(0)28 9023 9520
2. R.phost / Email: reamai.mathers@gmail.com
Suíomh idirlín / Website: www.iontaobhasnag.com