20 years in the making - Portnoo set to get thatching school

In a very exciting move for the Portnoo area, Dolmen Leisure Clg has secured funding to establish a Thatching School.

The organisation has secured €175,359.17 in LEADER funding, which has been formally approved by the Donegal Local Development Company and Donegal LCDC. The new Thatching School will be located at the Dolmen Centre in Kilclooney, Portnoo.

The project developed by the committee of Dolmen Leisure Clg aims to support the continuation of the craft of thatching, an integral aspect of vernacular architecture in Donegal.

Patsy Harkin from Dolmen Leisure Clg, said: “One of our founding members of The Dolmen Centre, Conal Shovlin, first mooted this idea for Portnoo and tried to secure funding over 20 years ago so we’re thrilled to see our plans come to fruition after all these years. 

“We’re excited to have professionally trained thatchers pass on their skills and keep this dying trade alive. 

“The Thatching School and its construction is no longer a dream but will now be a reality.”

With 75% of the construction costs covered by LEADER funding, the committee is actively raising funds to secure the remaining 25% through other funding and donations. 

The Thatching School will provide training in thatching delivered by master thatchers, who are keen to pass on their skills and knowledge. This unique educational facility will create employment opportunities and boost tourism in the area, offering a rewarding role to those who are seeking to work for themselves.

DLDC’s Rural Development Manager Sinéad McLaughlin said: “This project will not only contribute to the preservation of an important cultural heritage but also create employment opportunities and boost tourism in the area.  

“DLDC is delighted to support the Dolmen Leisure Company LBG in their efforts to establish the Thatching School through its LEADER programme. 

“We look forward to seeing the Thatching School thrive and the continuation of this unique craft.

Dolmen Leisure also thanked Community Finance Ireland for providing interim finance for the project.  

Barry Symes, Head of Community Finance ROI, said: “The team at Dolmen Leisure Company LBG are a fantastic example of visionary community spirit. We are delighted to be able to help finance this project and welcome the opportunities both of employment and future tourism that the project will bring to the area”.

Paddy Mc Hugh Building Contractors Ltd has been appointed as the local contractor, and Cornerstone Architecture in Ardara will be responsible for the design and supervision of the build. The planning permission was approved by Donegal County Council in mid-2022.