The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, announced on 7th August 2025 the approval of €254,270 in funding for CONCOS, the umbrella organisation for Irish summer colleges, covering the period from 2025 to 2027. This funding is intended to support CONCOS in implementing its work programme and continuing its role within the summer colleges sector.
Established in 1968, CONCOS has served as a central coordinating body for the summer colleges sector. The approved funding will allow the organisation to carry out activities outlined in its strategic plan, helping to sustain and develop the sector’s operations.
CONCOS advocates for Irish language colleges and offers continuous advisory services, focusing particularly on child protection and fire safety. The organisation also supports over 500 families under the Irish Language Learners’ Scheme, who provide accommodation to students attending the summer colleges. Additionally, CONCOS acts as the designated Garda Síochána vetting organisation for the sector, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Minister Calleary expressed his satisfaction with the Department’s ability to fund CONCOS for another three years. He highlighted that his Department invests over €6 million annually in the Irish language colleges sector through subsidies to families under the Irish Language Learners’ Scheme. The Minister emphasized the sector’s importance to the future of the Irish language and the Gaeltacht and noted a recent increase in grants for families and residential colleges accommodating students. He praised CONCOS for its vital role and the valuable work it undertakes as a key stakeholder in promoting the sector.
As the summer college season came to a close, Minister Calleary extended congratulations to all involved, including Gaeltacht families, college communities, bus drivers, local communities, and committees. He acknowledged their collective efforts in ensuring a successful season, recognizing the important contribution of many local people and organisations.
