‘Totally unacceptable’: Senator Boyle on delay for Dunkineely NS funding

Senator Manus Boyle has expressed his disappointment that funding for works at Dunkineely National School will not be received until 2026.

Senator Boyle raised the issue of children's safety at the school in the Seanad, saying the news was “totally unacceptable.”

He highlighted that the issue has been ongoing since 2023. Non-adherence to traffic lights at the school crossing, speeding, and a near-miss between a truck and a group of children have contributed to local concerns.

Addressing the Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Marian Harkin, Senator Boyle said: “At the end of the day, I’m here to try and help the people in my area.

“I’m getting this on a weekly basis from parents and grandparents asking why this is happening in Donegal and why they are not being looked after. This is a priority here.”

He invited the Minister to pay a visit to the school to see the amount of traffic going past and decide what needs to be done.

READ NEXT: Safety concerns highlighted as cars slip into river in Ramelton

He also posted to social media: “I am very disappointed regarding the news that funding for urgent works at Dunkineely National School will not be available until 2026. These works are essential to prevent potential accidents, and the current traffic lights are not being adhered to, which poses a significant risk.

“It is imperative that we take immediate action to address this situation. I want to assure you that I will continue to advocate for this issue and seek a more timely resolution.”