CE Report July 2025

Chief Executive’s Management Report

July 2025 Council Meeting

Report to Meeting of Donegal County Council on 21st July 2025

Management Report – July 2025

1.Community Development & Planning Services

Community Development

Clar Programme 2025

The 2025 CLAR Scheme was launched on 4th April, 2025. CLAR Measure 1 being administered by Local Authorities providing funding for developing Community Assets and Facilities. The Council has now submitted the following 16 applications to the value of €1.11m to the DRCDG following an application and evaluation process:

 Coiste Forbartha Dhobhair Teo- Application for €65,000 to enhance an existing broadleaf forest and river walk celebrating language and culture while improving connectivity and accessibility in and around Derrybeg Gaoth Dobhair

 CLG Chill Chartha – Application for €100,000 to deliver a fully accessible spectator stand, prioritising inclusive design with dedicated disabled facilities to ensure comfort and access for all community members.

 Deele Community Anglers CLG- Application for €65,000 to install a solar powered green energy generating system at the Mongorry Community Environmental and Angling Hub and improve accessibility thereby facilitating year round fishing for all.

 Féile Ghleanncholmcille Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta - Application for €65,000 to enhance cultural amenity in the former Church of Ireland Church in Glencolmcille

 Coiste Forbartha Chnoc Fola – Application for €65,000 to install energyefficient lighting around Loch an Inbhir

 Coiste Forbartha Éadan Fhionn Fraoich – Application for €100,000 to resinstate the Croaghs Walk through the Bluestacks, to promote and share the unique cultural heritage of the area

 Pettigo GAA – Application for €65,000 for the provision for a walking/running track around the perimeter of the existing playing fields for all in the Community in Pettigo to enjoy.

 Gleann Fhinne Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta- Application for €65,000 to upgrade the existing catering provision servicing the Cloghan Community Day Centre serving Gleann Fhinne and the wider Finn Valley area in East Donegal

 Comhlacht Forbartha An Tearmainn- Application for €65,000 to improve the existing outdoor facilities at the Craoibhin Community Centre and provide a sheltered space for children and adults of all ages and abilities for use all year round

 CLG Ard an Ratha – Application for €65,000 for the upgrade of the existing carpark facilities to improve safety and accessibility for the community and the visitors they welcome.

 Coiste Forbartha An Fhál Carraigh – Application for €65,000 to extend and improve existing play facilities, and to provide an inclusive recreational space for children of all ages and abilities in the Cloughaneely area.

 Killaghtee Community Hall Committee – Application for €65,000 to improve accessibility and core services in Killaghtee Community Hall

 Culdaff Parish – Application for €65,000 to enhance thermal performance at Congal Hall Culdaff

 CLG An Tearmainn – Application for €65,000 to improve the access and upgrade the existing car parking facilities servicing the existing sporting and recreational facility for all in the Community in Termon to enjoy.

 Redcastle Community Development – Application for €65,000 to enhance and improve the existing playing fields at Redcastle servicing all in the community and wider area.

 Moville GAA – Application for €65,000 to upgrade/refurbish the existing Multi-Use Games Area – MUGA based at Moville GAA All-Weather Sports Community Provision

Capital Projects Delivery Unit & Taking in Charge of Housing Estates Division

Major Projects Update

The Major Projects Division has been established to manage the delivery of major projects funded from various sources, including URDF, RRDF, BEDF, Failte Ireland, Shared Island and Peace Programme Funding. The range of projects currently being managed are as follows:

Fort Dunree:

In partnership with Fáilte Ireland, this project proposes to transform the Fort Dunree visitor experience, providing new public spaces, refurbishing existing infrastructure and provision of a new glass walkway. A Part 8 application was submitted to Donegal County Council in October 2023, however, following a submission to An Bord Pleanála (ABP) the Council was directed to apply to ABP for development consent. An application was submitted to ABP at the start of Aug 2024 and to date (end June) a decision is awaited.

Letterkenny SURS – Phase 1:

This Shared Island, Enterprise Ireland and Donegal County Council co-funded project proposes the development of 7,717m2 Enterprise Space, Alpha Building, Beta Building linking with the Letterkenny 2040 public realm. Following an unsuccessful construction tender process the Donegal 2040 DAC is currently considering options to progress the project.

Lifford Common:

This project proposes the development of a multi-use park infrastructure, football facilities and servicing of lands in Lifford. Construction is underway with an August 2025 target completion date.

Riverine Community Park

This project proposes a cross-border community park (Lifford and Strabane) over thirty acres including a pavilion, events space, play areas, bridge, and walkways. Detailed design has been progressed for the project. A procurement strategy has

been agreed and the procurement process for a design team to complete the design of the project and manage the construction process is underway. The tender return date is 4th July 2025.

Burtonport Harbour to Arranmore Island Regeneration – Phase 2:

The Burtonport Harbour to Island Regeneration (Phase 2) project proposes a ferry terminal building and enterprise space in the new harbour environment in Burtonport. Construction commenced on site in August 2024 and remains on target for completion at end Q4 2025.

Killybegs 2040 – Town Centre Regeneration:

This project proposes the provision of a Public Realm outdoor space, strategic land acquisitions and the modification and extension of Island House to provide a Tourism Information Centre, Office space & public amenities. Construction of this project has been substantially completed and was officially opened by An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue TD on 27th June 2025.

Carndonagh Tús Nua Regeneration:

In partnership with Spraoi agus Spórt, this project will see the delivery of a Coworking Hub, Fablab, Creative Hub and public realm infrastructure. The Compulsory Purchase Order was confirmed by An Bord Pleanála in October 2024. Detailed design/tender documentation has been completed and DRCD approval to commence the construction tendering process is awaited.

Ballybofey & Stranorlar ‘SEED’ Project:

This project proposes a public realm outdoor space, car parking and Enterprise Development in the town center. The land acquisition process is continuing. The CPO is with An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) for decision, one objection has been submitted and it is expected that ACP will convene an Oral Hearing in the coming

months. DRCD approval has been requested to commence the construction tendering process for the Refurbishment/ Reconstruction of the Ritz building.

Letterkenny 2040 – Reimagined Market Square:

This project consists of the demolition and removal of the existing public realm and construction of a new public realm environment. A design team has been appointed, detailed design and tender documentation has been completed. The construction tender process is in progress with a tender return date of 11th July 2025.

Creeslough Community Regeneration Project:

This project consists of the construction of a new community hub building, a multi-purpose community field and a community garden and landscaped public realm. Funding was announced in May 2024 and the funding agreement was signed off in August 2024. The procurement process for the appointment of a design consultant was completed on 7th March and the detailed design process is in progress. The construction tendering process is expected to commence in Q4 2025.

Ramelton Re-Imagined/Historic Town Centre:

This project consists of the regeneration of public areas throughout the town centre including provision of civic meeting places, green spaces, surface renewal and pedestrian priority improvements. The construction tender process is underway, tenders have assessed and as at end June DRCD approval to award tenders is awaited.

Repowering Buncrana

This project consists of the regeneration of Buncrana including a new pedestrian bridge, enhancement of public spaces at the Shore Front, Fishing Green and better connectivity to the Main Street and Swan park together with the renovation of the Old Garda Barracks to provide bespoke office accommodation. Preliminary design of this project is continuing. The Part 8 planning process for the Garda Barracks will commence in Q3 2025. The statutory approvals process for the remainder of the project is being scoped out at present and may require an application to MARA for a Marine Area Consent followed by an application to An Coimisiún Pleanála for NIS approval.

Developer Provided Waste Water Infrastructure Resolution Works

The Council was allocated funding under the Multi-annual DPI resolution programme to resolve issues with waste water treatment plants in a number of private residential estates in the County and the majority of these works have been or are nearing completion as set out below:

 Flaxmill Court in Carrigans, Stone Park in Glenties and Doonan Court in Donegal Town have all been completed and the estates are taken in charge.

 Rás na Mhuilinn in Carrigans: Works to resolve the DPI have been completed and it is expected that the estate will be taken in charge in Q3.

 Dromore Park, Killygordon: The new pump station is now operational and it is anticipated that the estate will be taken in charge in Q4. Works to connect the Dromore NS rest with UÉ’s contractor who have been notified.

 St. Jude’s Court & Hazelwood Drive, Lifford: The WW Pump station is operational since July 2024 with defects period with Uisce Éireann to finish in July 2025.

 Woodlands, Ballyshannon: Contractor has been appointed and expected to commence works in the coming weeks. The works are expected to last 6 months.

Refugee Response Unit Update

Africa Day 2025 Youth Events

Donegal County Council Local Authority Integration Team and Donegal Youth Service held two full-day events for young people to mark Africa Day 2025. Each day included activities to explore how the young people see themselves and how they imagine others see them. Understanding and valuing culture was an important theme of the day, with discussions focusing on youth work, inclusion, diversity, fun, acceptance, tolerance, and teamwork.

Skills Audit

The LAIT and OAH Teams are collecting data from a wide range of cohorts. The questionnaire will allow the Refugee Response Team, Donegal County Council to clearly understand the circumstances and experiences of refugees in County Donegal.

This improved understanding of the opinions and needs of refugees will better equip the Local Authority and its partner stakeholders to plan and support refugees. Interviews will be conducted face to face allowing the team to elicit accurate data and provide them with a full understanding of needs.

Training for Centre Managers

The LAIT Support Workers recently completed a training session with IPAS Centre Managers. The training explored intercultural awareness and afforded managers the opportunity to connect with each other and share learning. Future training needs were identified and the team will engage with relevant providers to support the next phase.

iFEST

Donegal’s Local Authority Integration Team hosted an event which created a space for connection, belonging, and a celebration of cultural diversity. The first iFEST was held in Oakfield Park, Raphoe on 17th June 2025. With almost 300 in attendance on a glorious day, this was an event to remember.

The event featured an inspiring and uplifting programme with performances from the Middle East, Ireland, Ukraine, Africa, and the Roma community. A celebration of food, dance, poetry, music, conversation, and storytelling evoked emotional reactions from the audience as they celebrated their cultural heritage. There were opportunities to hear personal stories, to learn about diverse cultures, appreciate diversity, and, most importantly, build meaningful relationships.

Other highlights included an interview with Cllr. Niamh Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, was conducted by MC for the day, Andrew McNulty, Arts and Cultural Diversity Officer.

“We had a lovely day at this wonderful event. Families were able to connect with music, dance, food, and poetry. This unity was joyous. “Cllr. Kennedy Children were entertained by the award-winning team at Spraoi agus Sport and enjoyed exploring the fabulous gardens and park, which included a fun train ride around Oakfield grounds.

Services of the Council, Community, Roads, Environment, and Culture were in attendance to provide information and answer any queries.

2.Water and Environment

Waste and Litter Management

Clean-Air Project

Donegal County Council welcomes the approval of a €6.5 Million PEACEPLUS Clean-Air project, the first all-island initiative of its kind focused on air quality, which will be led by ERNACT. The project includes Donegal County Council as a partner, along with a number of academic institutions from both sides of the border - Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, University College Cork, University of Galway, Technological University Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, Institute of Public Health, as well as Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. Associate Partners in this project are - Derry City & Strabane District Council, Clean Air Advocacy Ireland, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Health Association of Ireland, Asthma & Lung UK Northern Ireland, and the Irish Heart Foundation.

The project aims to address the primary sources of air pollution - solid fuel use, road transport emissions, and agricultural ammonia - through a programme of research, citizen science, data-sharing, and public health engagement. It will implement sensor-based monitoring in cross-border towns to assess road transport and solid fuel burning pollution and launch citizen science initiatives to empower local communities in air quality monitoring.

The main outputs of PEACE-Air include:

• Strategic all island partnerships for managing air pollution and delivering cleaner air.

• A unique multi- and inter-disciplinary research community equipped to address complex air quality issues.

• Source attribution of Particulate Matter to quantify contributions from solid fuel burning, road transport and agricultural emissions.

• The first accredited laboratory for solid fuel testing on the island of Ireland to support enforcement of solid fuel regulations.

• Comprehensive air pollution measurement datasets, enhanced and improved modelling capabilities, and health impact assessments to inform and support policy development.

• Increased public awareness of the shared challenge and detrimental health effects of air pollution,

• Continued professional development opportunities for Environmental Health officers

• An overall cross-border strategy and action plan for clean air

Funding was approved for staff to be employed in Donegal County Council in order for this project to be delivered and we need to ensure that we are in a position to deliver on our commitments therefore the recruitment of staff to this funded project warrants a focused effort.

Letterkenny University Hospital Biodiversity Day

Members from the Environment Team of Donegal County Council were delighted to be invited by Tracy Shannon, Environmental & Waste Coordinator with Letterkenny University Hospital to be part of their Biodiversity Day on the 15th May. We were able to share information on Food Waste Awareness with hundreds of Patients and Staff on site and handed out 148 Food Caddies to assist people in their home with food waste recycling. A very enjoyable and engaging event and great practice for our upcoming food waste awareness week.

Oakfield Park – Festival of Food 24th & 25th May

The Environment Section, participated in the Oakfield Park Festival of Food on the 24th – 25th May. There was an information stand on the topic of Food Waste Recycling, food waste prevention, recycling and climate as part of the Council’s local promotion of the upcoming National Food Waste Awareness Week 1st - 9th June. The Council team distributed over 300 Food Waste Starter Packs comprising of a food waste caddy, roll of compostable bags and an information leaflet over the course of the two-day event

Donegal County Council Compost Giveaway Events

National Food Waste Recycling Week ran from the 1stJune until the 9thJune 2025 is the national campaign from MyWaste to encourage people to recycle their food waste. This campaign will provide practical advice, with easy to follow hints and tips to encourage everyone to recycle more of their food waste.

National Food Waste Campaign – Free Compost Days

To support National Food Waste Recycling Week Donegal County Council in partnership with Bryson Recycling and Enviro Grind Ltd arranged Free Compost Giveaway Events across the Council’s 6 Recycling Centres. Enviro Grind Ltd located in Donegal make compost from a variety of sources, including from food and garden waste collected from households. This is a perfect example of the Circular Economy at work.

Householders were asked to bring their own way of collecting the loose compost either using bags or containers, compost will be available while stocks last. Staff were on site to assist and give advice on food waste recycling and a limited number of Food Waste Recycling Starter Packs will be available to householders. Starter packs included a Food Waste caddy, a roll of compostable liners and information on what food waste can be recycled.

The focus of this years campaign is to reduce contamination in the food waste bin, items such as foil, glass and plastic should not find their way into the food waste bin. This helps to prevent contamination at the compost and anaerobic digestion facilities leading to higher quality material for recycling and was once again a huge success.

The Rubbish Film Festival 2025

The Rubbish Film Festival, an award-winning national initiative, challenges TY students to create one-minute films tackling key environmental issues, including climate change, sustainability, and waste reduction. The festival, funded by Donegal County Council, empowers young people to use digital storytelling to raise awareness and drive action.

This year, students from 5 Donegal schools Deele College, Errigal College, Finn Valley College, Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmuida and Rosses Community School took part in onsite workshops, each with 12 students per class, where they developed their filmmaking, editing, and storytelling skills under the guidance of industry professionals. Donegal County Council is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of three local secondary schools who excelled in this year’s event:

1. Best Movie - Errigal College

2. Runner Up Movie - Finn Valley

3. Best Poster - Gairmscoil Mhic Dhiaramada

First Ever National Relove Fashion Awards

Ireland’s next generation of fashion design talent proved that the future is sustainable at the first-ever national Relove Fashion Grand Final.

The event, organised by and held at the Rediscovery Centre, Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy on April 30th, saw awards being handed to 24 winners who dazzled the judges and audience alike. Each award winner took home an upcycled trophy, an expert-led sustainable fashion workshop, and the overall winners from each region took home €500 for fashion related tools and equipment for their schools.

As a counter-movement to challenge fast fashion, the competition encourages teenage designers from across the country to showcase innovative, upcycled outfits made entirely from preloved textiles - transforming everything from old cushion covers to moth-eaten berets into stylish, wearable fashion.

Connaught-Ulster Waste Region Winner were:

● Best Casual: Cara McLaughlin, Spraoi Agus Sport

● Overall Winner: Davin Coyle, Gairmscoil Chú Uladh

ADI – Anti Dumping Initiative 2025

In May the Environment section received confirmation from the Connacht Ulster Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authority (CU WERLA) that their application for Anti-Dumping Initiative funding (ADI) has successfully secured more than €116,000 for a range of projects to be delivered throughout the County in 2025. This is the 7th year in a row that the section has secured in excess of €100,000.

The Anti-Dumping initiative (ADI) introduced in 2017 aims to encourage collaboration between local authorities, communities and other state Agencies to tackle the problem of illegal dumping. It is an annual program run in conjunction with local authorities and community partnerships coordinated by the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLA’s).

Since the launch of the initiative 1,751+ projects have been successfully delivered across all 31 local authorities and funding of €17+ million has been provided. In the last 9 years more than €960,000 has been secured to deliver projects throughout Donegal and support community groups. These projects help combat illegal dumping, address blackspots and promote awareness and enforce waste management laws.

The focus is usually on the four key areas and project proposals are assessed based on their potential impact in these areas;

- Prevention

- Abatement - Education and - Enforcement.

Projects delivered in Donegal in the last few years have included; bikes for Africa, a household waste project, the production and distribution of pocket guides, paint reuse projects, reduced price bulky waste recycling days, resources to support targeted enforcement work and resources for community groups.

In 2025 an innovate project will see the Reduce Reuse Recycle booklets being translated into the top ten languages in Donegal (based on 2022 census data). This information will be made available online for maximum exposure.

Best Plastic Pollution Campaign

As part of the “Beat Plastic Pollution” promotional campaign, the Environment team partnered with Visit Donegal to mark World Environment Day on 5th June. This collaboration supported Visit Donegal’s ongoing tourism campaign while also raising awareness around plastic pollution. Informative content on recycling practices was shared across Visit Donegal’s social media platforms, helping to educate the public on how to reduce and properly manage plastic waste.

Litter Free Campaign

The Environment section launched a social media campaign to highlight the importance of keeping the County litter free. The campaign aimed to raise awareness and encourage responsible waste disposal through informative and engaging content.

Donegal International Rally

The section ran a social media add on keeping Donegal Litter Free.

Donegal County Council are running a cinema add on only using Licensed Waste collectors to dispose of rubbish. In conjunction with this social media campaign is

Climate Action

Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 – Progress Report 2024

Our first progress report on implementing the Climate Action Plan is complete. It will be presented at the next meeting of the Environment and Climate SPC and will also be issued to the members of all other SPCs ahead of their next meetings. We will be seeking endorsement of the progress report at the next Plenary meeting, after which the report will be made available on the Climate Action page of www.donegalcoco.ie. The report indicates that 85% of our climate actions are ongoing or complete. It also provides an overview of the climate action work and projects being carried out across the organisation and within the wider community

Light for Local Authorities – Workshop Promoting Energy Efficiency and Responsible Lighting Practices

A workshop on Artificial Lighting for Local Authorities was held in the Sligo Park Hotel in April ‘25.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness of responsible lighting practices by limiting light pollution, reducing energy costs and carbon emissions and supporting biodiversity.

The workshop covered the impacts of artificial lighting on the environment, energy efficiency, health, and biodiversity. It provided practical guidance on developing and implementing policies and practices to mitigate these effects. Topics included:

o The adverse effects of light pollution.

o Strategies for reducing light pollution through better lighting practices.

o Case studies and best practices from local authorities and organisations.

o The opportunities for local authorities to integrate responsible lighting into projects.

An Fálcarrach/Gort an Choirce DZ Town Centre First Policy – Town Team. Community Drop-In Event

The Climate Action Unit participated in a drop-in event organised by the Regeneration Team on the Town Centre First Policy – Town Team on the 30th April in Fálcarrach. This event gave the Climate Action Unit the opportunity to engage with the communities in An Fálcarrach / Gort an Choirce to be part of the development of a vision, actions and ideas for the An Fálcarrach/Gort an Choirce Decarbonising Zone (DZ) as set out in our Climate Action Plan 2024 – 2029 (see link - Climate Action Plan | Donegal County Council). The Council’s Climate Action Unit highlighted the ethos of Decarbonising Zones, discussed opportunities for climate action within the community, listened to ideas and sought input on how we can support and build on the register of opportunities set out in our Plan.

Central Laboratory

June Public Service Announcements

 Farmers & Professional Users of Pesticides & Sheep dip

EPA reports in recent years have identified that some rivers in Donegal have been seriously impacted by toxic effects from pesticides, including sheep dip. Donegal County Council would like to remind farmers, contractors & gardeners of the need to follow best practice when using these products. Firstly, read the product label carefully, avoid spills, stay well back from open drains, rinse empty containers 3 times into the sprayer or tank & don’t spray if it is windy or rain is forecast in the next 48 hours. Follow Teagasc advice on safe disposal of spent sheep dip, which should never ever be released into any water-course

 Bathing Waters 2025 season

The 2025 Bathing Season commenced officially on the 1st June and the Council’s Central Lab will be carrying out sampling at all designated bathing waters and Green Coast Awards

As in previous years, forecasted heavy rainfall events will lead to the posting of Prior Warning Notices at certain bathing waters to protect bathers & forewarn of a potential drop in water quality status required for the Blue Flag.

 Caravan /Holiday/Camping Parks

During the busy summer tourist season, Donegal County Council will be conducting inspections of caravan parks focusing on wastewater treatment and the provision of proper waste segregation and collection service, including a food waste (brown) bin.

Any business such as a hotel, caravan or camping park, or Guest House discharging domestic sewage from a septic tank or other disposal unit by means of a percolation area, soakage pit or other method, is required to apply to the Council for and obtain a licence under Section 4 of the Water Pollution Act. If a company discharges a trade effluent, they are legally obliged to hold a licence.

Defective Concrete Blocks - Update

Background

Donegal County Council, as a Designated Local Authority, are tasked with the Administration of the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

The Enhanced Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme offers financial assistance to support affected homeowners in designated local authority areas to remediate their dwelling, where their dwelling had been damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks in its construction.

The Enhanced Scheme has been in operation since 3rd July 2023.

The primary legislation which underpins the Enhanced Scheme is the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022.

This report provides an update on the implementation of the Enhanced Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme and covers the period up to and including 30th June 2025.

DCB Scheme Overview as at 30th June 2025

Section 1

At the commencement date, Donegal County Council had 1,296 applications received under the Previous Scheme which required transitioning to the Enhanced Scheme. These applications are referred to as “Transitional Applications”. Donegal County Council had issued approval to 849 applications prior to the commencement of the Enhanced Scheme.

1.1 : Status of Transitional Applications as

at 30th June 2025

Transitional Applications at 3rd July 2023

Declaration of Floor Area (DOFA) received from Applicants for Grant Calculations to date under the Enhanced Scheme

Declarations reviewed by Donegal Co Co and returned to applicant 5

Percentage of Applications reviewed to date by Donegal County Council

Value of Grant Amounts under the Enhanced Scheme €196,210,687

Key Points:

 Of the 849 Transitional Applications which received Confirmation of Eligibility and Remediation Option by Donegal County Council under the provisions of the Previous Scheme, 527 applicants were approved for Option 1 and the remaining 322 applicants were approved for Option 2 – 5 and Blended Options.

 73% of all approved applicants have now submitted the required information (Declaration of Floor Area - DOFA, dimensioned drawings) to enable Grant Calculation by Donegal County Council.

 To date 96% of all submitted Declarations have been processed or returned to the applicant for follow up.

Section

2 - Referral of Applications to the Housing Agency

Under the provisions of the Enhanced Scheme, the technical assessment of validated applications is the remit of the Housing Agency. The initial step for an application, following validation and referral to the Housing Agency, is the Housing Agency’s Determination of Damage Threshold of the relevant dwelling.

The average timescale for Determination of Damage Threshold by the Housing Agency is 60 days.

For applications that meet the Damage Threshold, the Housing Agency provides an indicative timeline for determination of the Remediation Option & Grant Amount. The Determination of Damage Threshold and the Remediation Option Grant as decided by the Housing Agency is communicated to the applicant by the Council’s DCB Grant Office.

Where it is deemed by the Housing Agency that an application has not met the Damage Threshold or where an applicant is not satisfied with the Approved Remediation Option, the applicant may submit an Appeal to the Independent Appeals Panel.

Overview of Referral of Applications to the Housing Agency

2.1 Determination of Damage Threshold as at 30th June 2025

Applications Validated by Donegal County Council & Referred to the Housing Agency for Determination on Damage Threshold

Application for Revised Approval under Section 23 Received & Referred to the Housing Agency

Determination on Damage Threshold received from the Housing Agency and communicated to applicant by Donegal County Council

To date, 98% of applications assessed by the Housing Agency have been determined to meet the Damage Threshold.

2.2 Remediation Option & Grant Amount as at 30th June 2025

To date, the Housing Agency has decided the Remedial Option Grant on 54% of the applications which have been determined to have met the Damage Threshold under the provisions of the Enhanced Scheme. These Options are summarised below:

Remediation Option Grant Refusal by the Housing Agency 3

Section 3 - Payments Processed since the introduction of the Enhanced Scheme

Table 3 provides an overview of Payments issued to applicants since the introduction of the Enhanced Grant Scheme in July 2023.

3.1: Payments Processed since the Introduction of the Enhanced Scheme

Where homeowners have been refunded at 90% of their outlay on CBP/Engineers Report Fees under the provisions of the Previous Scheme,

the Council’s DCB Grant Office are processing the remaining 10% Engineers Fees balance, on receipt of a subsequent Payment Claim.

Section 4 - Overview of Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme

4.1 : Overview of Applications received under the Enhanced DCB Scheme

4.3 Remediation Option & Grant Amount as at 30th June 2025

This table outlines the decided Remediation Option Grants which have been notified to approved applicants by the DCB Grant Office.

Total No. of Grant Amounts decided to date (Previous Scheme & Enhanced Scheme) 1170

Total Value of Grant Amounts decided to date (Previous Scheme & Enhanced Scheme) €397,104,538

No. of Confirmation of Grant Amounts from the Previous Scheme as calculated/ recalculated under the Enhanced Scheme by Donegal County Council (Transitional Applications) 591

Value of Grant Amounts from the Previous Scheme as calculated/ recalculated under the Enhanced Scheme by Donegal County Council €196,210,687

Number of Confirmation of Grant Amounts received from the Housing Agency under the terms of the Enhanced Scheme 579

4.4 Notice of Commencement & Remediation Works

No. of Commencements notified by Applicants to the DCB Grant Office 655

No. of Dwellings currently undertaking Remediation Works 547

No. of Dwellings Fully Remediated 108

Assistance to Applicants

The DCB Grant Office continues to actively engage with applicants across the full scope of the Scheme. This includes Validation of Enhanced Scheme Applications, Ancillary Grant Applications, Notification of Decisions, Validation of Payment Claims, Processing Payments, Change of Competent Building Professional and all other general queries.

The DCB Section of Donegal County Council’s Website is updated regularly and contains all the information and links that an applicant may require at various stages of the application process.

The telephone clinics are available every Tuesday and Thursday (9am – 12.30pm) to assist applicant with any queries and the DCB Grant Office Team follow up on applicants’ queries outside of the specific telephone clinics. Applicants can also submit queries via email to dcb@donegalcoco.ie and a member of the team will be in contact with the applicant.

The Community Facilitators have a role in supporting and guiding homeowners and families who are most vulnerable and / or applicants who may not have the necessary facilities to submit an online application. There are now four Community Facilitators available to assist applicants throughout the county.

3. Housing, Corporate & Cultural Services

Social Housing Delivery

The social housing delivery programme is continuing to receive priority. There are many challenges which continue to be reported on at the monthly special council meetings on Housing.

In summary, 248 houses have been completed, a further 511 have contracts signed and are on site. In addition, approximately 498 are at various stages of planning and seeking utility connections / confirmation of supply.

Photos below outline progress on site on social housing projects across the county.

Specific Instance (SI) Housing

Donegal County Council continue to progress the development of SI housing across the County. As well as the two SI houses that have been completed in recent years, there are currently three SI houses on-site, one to commence shortly, two at advanced design / tender stage, six at Stage 2 Assessment and one at Stage 1 Assessment.

Housing Grants

Donegal County Council recently proposed and received support for the introduction of two new Standard Cost Elements of Works (for a Home/Property) from Members at the recent Housing & Corporate Services SPC meeting.

The new Standard Cost Elements of Works (for a Home/Property) include the following:

Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People

Mobility Aids Grant

Disabled Persons’ Grant (DPG) Scheme

Donegal County Council completed works on 126nr social housing units in 2024, under the Disabled Persons’ Grant (DPG) Scheme. This scheme continues to be utilised to carry out the necessary works to meet the needs of older people or people with a disability who live in Council’s social housing units.

Culture Division

Creative Ireland Cruinniú na nÓg

The annual National Day of Creativity for children and young people, Cruinniú na nÓg, took place on Saturday 7th of June. A wide and varied programme took place at over 35 locations across the county for children of all abilities and backgrounds.

Library Service

Skills for Life

A new library initiative called Skills for Life will be coming on stream at local libraries in the coming months. It aims to tackle areas such as Basic Digital Skills, Financial Literacy, Media Literacy, Business and Employment Skills, Health Awareness and Sustainable Lifestyles and Environmental Awareness though events, learning tools and initiatives.

Skills for Life Logo which you’ll see on Donegal County Libraries website and social media channels in the coming months.

Arts Service

38th Earagail Arts Festival

Donegal County Council established the Earagail Arts Festival in 1989. It was incorporated as a limited company in 2004 and it is now managed and administered by Earagail Arts Festival Management CLG, an associate company of Donegal County Council. This year’s Festival will run from Friday, July 12th. to Saturday, July 26th The Festival will bring world class artists to Donegal with No Fit State Circus (UK) at Castlegrove, Letterkenny and Circus Éire’s weekends of family entertainment in Castlefin and Dún Lúiche.

Reaching out across the North and West of the county, the programme will include poetry, performance, walking and visual arts events on Oileán Thoraigh, Inis Bó Finne, Oileán Ghabhla and Glenveagh National Park as well as a Literary Journals Fleadh in Rathmullan and Ramelton .

The Festival’s exhibitions programme will include Donegal County Council Heritage Office’s Working Over By exhibition at Donegal County Museum, Simon Murphy’s Govanhill photo portraits at the Regional Cultural Centre, Pádraic Reaney’s solo show at An Gailearaí Doire Beag and Artlink’s Coast group show at Fort Dunree, Buncrana.

16th Irish Aerial Dance Festival

The 16th annual Irish Aerial Dance Festival is presented by the partnership of Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre, An Grianán Theatre and Donegal County Council. It takes place at An Grianán Theatre and the Aura Leisure Centre from July 14th to 27th.

The Festival is an intensive residential programme of specialized aerial dance classes, workshops and performances, led by a team of up to 40 internationally

recognised dance tutors and technical personnel. Over 200 dancers from all parts of Ireland, the UK and Europe as well as from the US, South America and Canada, will travel to Donegal for the two-week long event.

Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre was founded and is directed by Ballybofey dancer and choreographer, Chantal McCormick.

2nd Donegal Mela

The second Donegal Mela event, presented by the Indian Community Centre Letterkenny in association with Donegal County Council’s Arts Service and An Grianán Theatre, will take place at the An Grianán Theatre Plaza on Saturday afternoon, August 23rd next.

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Mela (meaning ‘a gathering, a meeting or a fair’ in Sanskrit) will be a celebration of Indian culture and heritage with guest performances by Irish and African artists.

Regional Cultural Centre

Festivals

The Earagail Arts Festival opens on July 12th, a major highlight that continues our strong partnership. Highlights include Macalla, a new cross-cultural commission blending Middle Eastern and Irish music, funded by the British Council.

Ceol na Coille presents The Kane Sisters with John Blake (July 16th) and Seán Óg Graham & Niamh Dunne (July 17th), showcasing top-tier traditional and contemporary Irish music.

The Outcasts, Belfast punk legends, return on July 19th with support from Donegal’s The Pox Men.

Exhibitions

July features a rich exhibition programme:

 Govanhill – Simon Murphy (Foyer Gallery), opened July 5th, captures the multicultural spirit of a Glasgow neighbourhood with deep Donegal ties.

 Another Time Undone (Gallery 1), opening July 12th, explores family, land, and legacy through new work by Vivienne Dick, Jill Quigley, and Adrian O’Carroll.

 Hands-On, Drop-In, Art Room, also launching July 12th, offers free, all-ages creative activities linked to our exhibitions, supporting broad community engagement.

In April-May the RCC welcomed over 200 students on school tours to our exhibitions.

County Donegal Heritage Office

Working Over By Exhibition

As part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan, the Culture Division of Donegal County Council in partnership with the Mellon Centre for Migration Studies launched a major exhibition on the occupations, working conditions and experiences of Donegal men and women in Scotland between 1940 and 1990. The exhibition will run in the County Museum, Letterkenny until January 2026.

County Heritage Plan Funding

The County Donegal Heritage Office and the County Donegal Heritage Forum secured €37,500 in match-funding from The Heritage Council under the County Heritage Plan Fund for the following Heritage Plan actions in 2025:

 Finalisation and delivery of the ‘Working Over By: Donegal Emigrant Working Lives in Scotland’ exhibition, travelling exhibition and associated publications (Objective 2.6);

 Rope Thatch Initiative and support for Donegal County Council’s award-winning Thatch Repair Grant Scheme (Objectives 4.6, 4.1 & 1.2); and

 Heritage Week in County Donegal & Heritage Outreach Programme (Objectives 3.5, 2.8, 3.2 & 3.8)

Heritage Week in County Donegal

National Heritage Week takes place from Saturday, August 16 to Sunday, August 24 this year. National Heritage Week is coordinated by The Heritage Council and Local

Authority Heritage Officers. This year’s theme is Exploring Our Foundations. Included in Heritage Week are three themed days: Heritage Open Doors (Saturday, August 16), Wild Child Day (Saturday, August 23) and Water Heritage Day (Sunday, August 24). Further details on how to register Heritage Week events are available at: www.heritageweek.ie The County Donegal Heritage Office will produce the County Donegal Heritage Week Event Guide in local newspapers to promote Heritage Week events. It is anticipated that there will be over 100 events taking place for Heritage Week in County Donegal this year.

The Laurels, Glenties Historic Towns Initiative

The Brian Friel Trust has appointed contractors and work has begun to the interior and the grounds of The Laurels (playwright Brian Friel’s mother’s home in Glenties). The proposed works include interior works to The Laurels, service provision at the site and the implementation of the landscape management plan. The Laurels is a Protected Structure of national significance. The Laurels - Glenties Historic Towns Initiative 2025 seeks to realise the development of The Laurels site to create a sensitive re-use for this outdoor space that respects the natural environment, is appropriate to the local history and family connections to the house, is inspired by Brian Friel’s imagination and creativity, and represents an integrated approach to best conservation practice as regards the future public realm at this heritage site.

Rope Thatch Mentorship Scheme

The aim of the pilot Rope Thatch Mentorship Scheme is to provide a training opportunity for a person who wants to pursue a career in thatching in County Donegal. The pilot scheme is an initiative of Donegal County Council (Conservation Office & Heritage Office) with funding from Donegal County Council, the Creative Ireland programme, the National Built Heritage Service & The Heritage Council.

Biodiversity Office

Wild Day Out at Inch

Over 200 people celebrate Biodiversity and Creativity at the Inch Wild Day Out on Saturday 7th June. Inch Wildfowl Reserve came alive with the sounds of laughter, discovery, and creativity as over 200 people gathered for the Wild Day Out at Inch, a cross-border celebration of biodiversity and imagination as part of Cruinniú na nÓg. Organised through the Biodiversity without Borders project and supported by Creative Ireland, the event was led by Donegal County Council as part of a Shared Island programme for Cruinniú na nÓg in partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Families explored the rich ecosystem of Inch Wildfowl Reserve, guided by nature experts and the Council biodiversity officers, with the dry weather adding to the day’s success.

Children and adults alike enjoyed birdwatching with Aengus Kennedy from Nature North West, fish and water-bug discovery with Frog CIC, and wildflower and bugspotting with Annie Mullan from Butterlope Farm. The biodiversity trail, part of the 8km loop, was a highlight, with wild prizes and free goody bags for the first 30 families.

Discovering the Wild things of Inch with FROG CIC– exploring insects, mini-beasts and life under the water.

NPWS Funding Awarded for Biodiversity Projects in Donegal Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government James Browne TD and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, announced on 20th May 2025 that €2.9 million in funding was awarded to local authorities for biodiversity projects under the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) in 2025.

All 31 local authorities applied for and will receive funding this year, with a total of 262 projects approved, covering a range of biodiversity related activities, including invasive alien species control, bird and bat conservation, wetland surveys and community biodiversity awareness and training.

Donegal County Council Biodiversity Office applied for and was awarded €97,547.11 to help support the following projects in 2025:

 Donegal Wetlands Field Survey 2025 - improving the knowledge of the wetland resource of County Donegal

 Woodland Bat Survey with Bat Conservation Ireland – An all-Ireland initiative to develop a robust, repeatable, standardised scientific methodology to monitor our woodland bat species

 Biodiversity of Donegal Species Audit - Phase II aims to update the Species Audit with a focus on the fauna

 Maintenance of Predator Exclusion Fences in Donegal to protect red-listed breeding waders 2025

 Supporting IAS recording and control in Donegal

 Putting Donegal Biodiversity on the Map - A programme of citizen science activities, wildlife surveys, practical action demonstrations and biodiversity

education activities to help put more Donegal biological records and practical action to support biodiversity, on the map.

 All- Ireland recording of the Irish Mayfly led by UCD

These projects will help build on the action for biodiversity taken in 2024, when NPWS also awarded DCC € 99,982 to deliver on a range of similar projects. Photos below demonstrate the achievements made during 2024 through the Putting Donegal Biodiversity on the Map project where DCC Biodiversity Officer coordinated and delivered over 15 events reaching approximately 650 people and raising awareness with them on biodiversity in Donegal.

Donegal County Museum has secured funding of €15,000 from the Department of Community, Culture and Sport under the 2025 Commemorative Programme for the delivery of 4 Culture Division projects.

1. Conference on the centenary of the Boundary Commission in November in association with Donegal Historical Society

2. Historian in Residence in the Archives Service to carry out research on the period from c.1922– 1932 and produce four essays which will be published in 2026.

3. Weeklong series of workshops with local actors to develop the script for the drama The Evicted by Kieran Kelly and presentation of the script to an audience of secondary school students.

4. History related children’s events during Wainfest in October

4. Economic Development, I.S. & Emergency Services

Fire Service Operations

Incident Activity

The number of incidents in the county and the fire brigade mobilisation activity for May and June 2025 are detailed in Table 1 below. The data is provisional with no data available for NIFRS.

May and June 2025

Activity Number

Incidents in County Donegal 185

Mobilisations (By Donegal Brigades) 253

Mobilisations into Donegal by NIFRS No Data Available

Table 1 - Operational Data for May and June 2025

Training

Members of the Service attended the following out of County training courses during May and June 2025:

 Members of the Service attended 2 No. one-week QQI – Using BA (Compartment Fire Behaviour) Courses at Tubbercurry Fire Station, Co. Sligo. In total 20 No. firefighters attended. 6 No. Donegal County Fire Service Instructors provided training on these courses.

 1 No. member of the Service attended a one-day Breathing Apparatus (BA) Instructor Course at Clonmel Fire Station, Co. Tipperary.

 1 No. member of the Service attended a one-week Managing Fire Service Incidents Module 2 Course at Sligo Fire Station, Co. Sligo. 1 No. Donegal County Fire Service Instructor provided training on this course.

 1 No. member of the Service attended Week 1 of 2 of a Breathing Apparatus (BA) Instructor Course at Tullamore Fire Station, Co. Offaly.

 1 No. member of the Service attended a one-week QQI - Transport Incidents Course at Sligo Fire Station, Co. Sligo. 1 No. Donegal County Fire Service Instructor provided training on this course.

Members of the Service attended the following in County training courses during May and June 2025:

 Members of the Service attended 6. No. 5-day Emergency Service Driving Standard Practical Driving Courses. In total 12 No. firefighters attended. 4 No. Donegal County Fire Service Instructors provided training on these courses.

 Members of the Service attended a half-day Emergency Service Driving Standard Practical (Initial) Driving Test. In total 12 No. firefighters attended.

Fire Prevention

Statutory Fire Safety

Table 2 below shows the number of valid Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) applications received and the number of applications granted for each of the two-month periods from May to June 2025, both dates inclusive.

Table 2 - twelve months summary of FSC’s received and decisions made.

At the end of June 2025, 39 FSC applications were waiting to be assessed, while 62 FSC applications were waiting for further information from the applicants Technical Agent.

Table 3 below sets out the type and frequency of other activities that the Fire Prevention Section was involved during May and June 2025.

May and June 2025

Table 3 – Fire Prevention Activity Data for March and April 2025 (Excludes FSC’s) * As part of its community fire safety programme, Donegal Fire Authority delivered a

Major Emergency Management

Donegal International Rally 2025

Inter-agency meetings regarding the Donegal International Rally were attended by senior officers from Donegal County Fire Service and personnel from the Roads and Planning Sections of Donegal County Council. In addition to the meetings, a multi-agency walk-through / talk-through Rally Exercise was also undertaken in advance of the Rally.

Severe Weather Emergency Management System (SWEMS) - Exercise

Personnel from Donegal County Council took part in an Inter-County Exercise on the 22nd of May. The exercise simulated a national severe weather event involving the establishment of the National Emergency Coordination Centre.

Storm Éowyn – Donegal County Council Review

The Donegal County Council's review of Storm Éowyn, 2025, was completed by the DCC Major Emergency Management Office. A summary of the Report was presented to DCC’s Senior Management Team on 30th May.

Severe Weather Flood Liaison Manager (SWFLM)

A meeting took place on 19th June between Met Eireann and Donegal County Council's two nominated SWFLM’s to discuss ongoing developments in Met Éireann and to ensure the essential lines of communication for severe weather events were up to date.

Local Enterprise Office

The Local Enterprise Office of Donegal County Council continues to be a key driver of local economic development, supporting small and micro enterprises across the county. Throughout the last three months, Local Enterprise Office Donegal has remained focused on fostering innovation, sustainability, and export growth, while delivering targeted supports that contribute to business resilience and job creation throughout the region.

Progress Against Targets

The following table illustrates LEO Donegal’s progress against targets for the first 6 months of 2025.

National Enterprise Awards 2025

One of the highlights of the year to date was when Seabound Engineering, a specialist aluminium boatbuilder based in Greencastle and supported by Local Enterprise Office Donegal, was honoured with the Best Export Award at the National Enterprise Awards, held at the Mansion House in Dublin in May.

This accolade marks the third consecutive year that a Donegal – and Inishowen –business has been recognised at a national level following awards for Living Green (2024) and Silver Strand Rope Works (2023), reinforcing the county’s strong business credentials.

Harris Tweed Delegation in Donegal

Another notable event this quarter was the visit of the Harris Tweed® delegation from the Outer Hebrides to Donegal. This important exchange was designed to foster lasting connections between the two regions, both of which share a strong

commitment to heritage crafts, community, and place. As guardians of traditional tweed-making, the Harris Tweed Authority offered valuable insights into sustaining and promoting a globally respected craft industry. The visit provided a unique opportunity to explore shared values and learn from each other’s approaches to enterprise development, cultural preservation, and governance, strengthening ties that honour the legacy and future of craft industries in both regions.

Donegal ProfitNet Engineering Network Tour of Terex Corporation

Members of the Donegal ProfitNet Engineering Network had the opportunity to visit Terex at their Ballymoney facility, gaining first-hand insight into the operations of a global leader in material processing machinery and mobile elevating platforms. The group was warmly welcomed by Darran McGall, Operations Manager at Terex, who generously shared the company’s impressive story of growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. The visit provided valuable inspiration and learning for local engineering businesses, highlighting the importance of ambition, strategic development, and world-class operational standards within the manufacturing sector.

Ambition Female Accelerator Programme

The second quarter of 2025 saw continued focus on Ambition, the female accelerator programme from Local Enterprise Office Donegal. Designed to support women-led businesses with high growth potential, the programme focuses on female entrepreneurs and promotes the skills and resilience needed to develop globally scalable ventures, attract investment and create jobs.

In June, prospective Ambition participants joined an information session to learn more about the programme. We also continued promoting Ambition to drive awareness of the next programme starting in September, including this article on Donegal Daily: https://www.donegaldaily.com/2025/06/11/open-informationsession-to-explore-award-winning-ambition-accelerator-from-leo-donegal/

Participants from last year’s Ambition Programme

Your Council Day – 27th June 2025

Local Enterprise Office Donegal took part in #YourCouncilDay on 27th June 2025, a national initiative led by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) to highlight the essential everyday services provided by local authorities across Ireland.

LEO Donegal used the day to spotlight the supports it provides to the business community, from mentoring and funding advice to sectoral development and training programmes.

#YourCouncilDay is a national event that celebrates local government. It's the opportunity to highlight the role that our county and city councils plays in Irish society, delivering essential services and making a positive impact for individuals, businesses and communities. Through a series of videos with our team, the campaign helped raise awareness of the wide range of services available through the Local Enterprise Office and Donegal County Council and encouraged businesses to engage with the LEO Donegal team to learn more about the supports available.

Business Supports Clinics

Throughout May and June, Local Enterprise Office Donegal continued its outreach across the county with a series of Business Support Clinics, offering accessible, one-to-one advisory sessions for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The most recent clinic in Dunfanaghy brought LEO advisors face-to-face with local business owners, providing tailored advice and guidance on available supports. These clinics play a vital role in raising awareness of LEO Donegal’s services and ensuring entrepreneurs can access support within their own communities.

Business Advisor, Philip O'Kennedy hosting a Business Support Clinic

10X North West

In partnership with the LEO Sligo, LEO Leitrim, Udaras na Gaeltachta and Enterprise Ireland under the NW Regional Enterprise Plan, LEO Donegal pioneered a new programme to encourage entrepreneurs from the region to Scale 10X. The programme comprised of an overnight residential and a 6 month mentoring exchange with seasoned entrepreneurs many of whom were previous EY Entrepreneur of the Year winners. The pilot concluded this month and a new programme for January 2026 is planned.

5. Roads & Transportation

s Roads Areas Update

Restoration Improvement and Restoration Maintenance

Currently Roads Areas are working through the RI and RM programmes, with 75 bitmac overlay contracts having been awarded to date under the RI programme, with a percentage of those being ‘warm mix’ contracts as against ‘hot mix’ under the current carbon reduction policies.

TII Emergency Pavement Scheme

Following representations by DCC to the TII, they have agreed to fund patch repairs under the Emergency Pavement Schemes programme on the N13 and N15 to the value of €591,245 as outlined below. These are currently out to tender with a view to early completion.

National Roads Office Update

TEN-T Priority Route Improvement Project Donegal

The formal Government Consent through cabinet was provided in July 2024. It is planned that publication of the EIAR and CPO will take place in the coming months, subject to normal process approvals by TII. This project links to the N2/A5 road scheme and is a vital link to Donegal.

A5 Western Transport Corridor

The High Court in Belfast heard an appeal against the decision of the then DfI Minister’s decision to proceed with the new sections of the A5 from south of Strabane to Ballygawley earlier this year. On the 23rd June the court delivered its judgement and ruled that that decision should be overturned.

On the 24th June the A5/N2 Cross Border Committee met with the current DfI Minister, Liz Kimmins MLA, and all parties reaffirmed their commitment to work together to overcome the setback to the delivery of the project. Minister Kimmins has vowed to examine all options to progress the scheme. A decision to appeal the judgement will need approval of the Stormont Executive.

Central Technical Services Update

Fintra Bridge

Donegal County Council celebrated the commencement of the Fintra Bridge and Road Realignment Project on Friday 27th June The project will see the upgrade and realignment of the approximately 2km of the existing R263 from the western end of the Glenlee Pass towards Fintra. It shall also include a new bridge crossing over the Fintra River and the creation of a new pedestrian and cycle route to link to Fintra Beach.

EV Charging Infrastructure

Further to the previous update in the CE Report in November 2024 TII has recently announced the successful applicants for Phase 2 of the ZEVI EV Recharging Infrastructure LDV National Road Grant Scheme programme. This phase focused on the TEN-T National Road Network. 53 new high-powered recharging pools will be rolled out under this scheme across the country following on from the 17 locations announced under Phase 1 which related to the Motorway network.

A total of 175 high-powered recharging points will be built across 53 recharging pools, providing an additional 20,000 kilowatts (20 Megawatts) of recharging capacity.

Each of these recharging pools provides fast and ultra-fast recharging points, so that people can charge their EVs quickly. The infrastructure will be built by the private sector, grant aided by the Department of Transport. The successful locations in Donegal under Phase 2 are shown below.

A third Phase was launched in February 2025 and this focuses on National Roads that are not on the TEN-T Road Network. In Donegal this includes the N56 and the N15 from Stranorlar to Lifford. The map shows roads that are covered under this phase. Applications are being assessed at present by TII.

Rail Connectivity

Meeting with Sean Canney TD, Minister of State in Department for Transport

Members of the North West Regional Development Group (NWRDG), a partnership of Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council, met with Sean Canney T.D., Minister of State in the Department of Transport, in relation to rail connectivity to the North West. In what was a very constructive meeting the NWRDG members highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration at a national and regional level to ensure that the recommendations of the All Island Strategic Rail Review to connect both Letterkenny and Derry to the existing rail network at Portadown were delivered. The group also made the case for a review of rail links along the Atlantic Economic Corridor from Derry to Letterkenny, Sligo, Galway, Limerick and Cork.

Members of the group also took the opportunity to brief other Oireachtas Members on rail connectivity for the North West.

Airlink between Derry City & Dublin Airports

Meet with Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien & Minister of State for Sport & Postal Policy Charlie McConalogue

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien & Minister of State for Sport & Postal Policy Charlie McConalogue recently met with the management of City of Derry Airport to discuss the progress to date on the air link between Dublin & Derry City Airports. I, together with my colleague in Derry City & Strabane District Council John Kelpie, also attended the meeting. The Derry-Dublin

route is included in the Programme for Government, and this was a significant step in progressing this very important airlink.

John G. McLaughlin Chief Executive