As a result of the relationships that have been created throughout this project, in June of 2019, we were able to begin a new scheme of scholarships that gave secondary school pupils an opportunity to attend the Gaeltacht during the summer.
The bursaries were named in memory of Martin Patton; Martin was a former itinerant teacher and member of Conradh na Gaeilge at the beginning of the last century. He had a tremendous interest in the language, and spent a significant period of his life teaching Irish all around the country.
The scheme was launched in Gael Ionad Mhic Gioll on the Whiterock Road of Belfast. At the event, Monica Patton, daughter of Martin, and her husband, Bill, presented five students with scholarships to enable them to spend the summer in the Donegal Gaeltacht. Monica and Bill travelled from England to be with us at the event, and we thank them once again for their generosity.