Gaeilge
As we approach Christmas 2025, I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the entire ETB community, across our schools, centres, and administrative offices, whose commitment and professionalism have contributed in such a meaningful way to the work of Donegal ETB throughout the year.
Our three pillars, led by our Directors Ciaran O’Brien (Further Education and Training), Andy McGovern (Organisation Support and Development), and Dr Martin Gormley (Schools), continue to demonstrate outstanding leadership. Their work is both varied and complex, and I know you will join me in congratulating all three on their considerable achievements during 2025.
As we reflect on another year full of dedication, achievement, and a commitment to community, I am reminded of some of the events that highlight our shared vision, mission, and values.
At the annual Managers Seminar Continuous Professional Development event, held in Buncrana in March, we were privileged to hear from Professor Anne Looney (DCU) on Catching our Breath and Setting our Compass, a timely and insightful reflection on education and training in challenging times, which allowed us to examine our practice through the lens of our values.
Our commitment to student voice was once again reflected in the Annual Schools Debating Forums, held in March (Senior) and November (Junior). Across all debates, our five core values remained central and visible in every contribution.
A new UBU Youth Service was announced for the east of the county this year, and we are looking forward to working with those communities as the new service is developed and launched.
ETB Week took place from 24–28 March, with national and local events celebrating the work of our sector. ETBI launched Education & Training Boards: Shaping the Future, Leaving No One Behind, a milestone publication featuring contributions from all 16 ETBs. Donegal ETB was also represented at the Excellence Awards Ceremony in Croke Park on 27 March.
Climate change remains a priority for us all. Our Climate, Energy and Sustainability Steering Group, chaired by the Chief Executive and representing all sections of the organisation, has met regularly throughout the year. In addition, the ETB sector received funding from the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to drive energy efficiency and decarbonisation across the FET sector.
Other significant events included National Workplace Wellbeing Day on 30 April, a very well-attended Retirement Seminar on 9 May, and a series of important engagements with Government and industry. Minister of State Marian Harkin visited our Training Centre on 5 June as part of a national tour, and a Harris Tweed delegation visited in late May, highlighting cultural and linguistic links between Donegal and Western Scotland as well as engaging with our Donegal Weaving Traineeship.
A landmark development this year was the signing of the construction contract for the Joint Apprenticeship Academy with ATU on 6 October. This new facility will serve more than 200 apprentices annually in Metal Fabrication and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, the first initiative of its kind between an ETB and a TU.
Ethos Week 2025, celebrated from 6–10 October, once again brought together schools and centres across the county in reflection on our shared values: Care, Community, Equality, Respect, and Excellence. This was followed by our annual Enterprise Day in October at ATU Donegal, where Transition Year students showcased their creativity and teamwork. Congratulations to the overall winning team from Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada, with Finn Valley College and Crana College placing second and third.
We were also pleased to welcome the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, T.D., to the Letterkenny Training Centre during his visit to Letterkenny in October, where he met with students and staff and learned more about our work.
The final events of 2025 always have a celebratory feel as our Music Education Partnership delights us with their Christmas Concert and schools and centres hold craft fairs and carol services throughout the county.
I would like to congratulate our Chairperson, Cllr Terry Crossan, on his recent election, and to extend best wishes to our new Deputy Chairperson, Cllr Declan Meehan. We also thank outgoing Chairperson Cllr Donal Coyle for his service during 2025 and acknowledge the contribution of outgoing Deputy Chair, Mr Geoffrey Browne.
At this time of year, we remember especially those who are no longer with us. I extend my sincere sympathy to all who have experienced bereavement during 2025. Christmas can be a difficult time for those who mourn loved ones, and keeping their memory alive is deeply important.
As we look toward 2026, I wish everyone good health, happiness, and peace. Please enjoy a safe and restful break over Christmas and the New Year. We look forward with hope to continue our work on behalf of the people of Donegal in the year ahead.
Warmest Christmas wishes to you and your families.