Connemara schools’ safety appeal
It has emerged that no schools in the north Connemara area are currently included in the scheme, with several now seeking urgent safety improvements around drop-off and pick-up times.
At least four schools in the area are understood to be looking for measures to improve safety, but frustration is mounting, as the scheme is not currently open to new applications.
Schools have been advised to apply, yet there is no indication as to when the next application window will open.
The issue was raised by Cllr Eileen Mannion (FG) at a recent meeting of Galway County Council as she sought clarity on when the scheme will reopen.
Officials confirmed that they “don’t know when the scheme will open next” as the programme is operated by An Taisce in conjunction with the National Transport Authority.
Driver behaviour on the N59 is shocking
It is not run directly through local authorities, adding to confusion at community level.
Concerns around road safety have been heightened by reports of poor driver behaviour on the N59, with residents pointing to speeding and a lack of awareness near schools.
“Driver behaviour on the N59 is shocking,” said Cllr Mannion, as she highlighted “the number of people killed on our roads” as a result.
She said the absence of any Safe Routes to School projects in north Connemara is a significant gap, particularly given the number of schools now seeking assistance.
“There are no Safe Routes To School schemes operating in North Connemara and at least four schools in the area are looking to be included on the scheme,” she said.
Cllr Mannion has called for increased funding and a more consistent rollout of the scheme to ensure that schools are not left waiting for long periods without access.
“The safety of children is paramount, especially younger children, as they tend to dart out,” she said.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.