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Chief Executive’s Management Report September 2026 Council Meeting

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.Finance, Corporate Services & Information Systems ..................................... 3 1.1

Information Systems .................................................................................................. 3

2.Planning, Communities & Culture ............................................................................... 5 2.1

Planning Services ......................................................................................................... 5

2.2

Regeneration & Development Team .................................................................... 10

2.3

Community Development ........................................................................................ 11

2.4

Refugee Response Unit Update ............................................................................. 13

2.5

Cultural Services ......................................................................................................... 18

3.Environment & Climate, Property Mgt. & DCBS ............................................... 24 3.1

Environment ................................................................................................................. 24

3.2

Defective Concrete Blocks ....................................................................................... 34

4. Housing, MD Services & Capital Projects ............................................................ 36 4.1 Housing & MD Services ............................................................................................. 36 4.2 Housing Capital ............................................................................................................ 39 4.3 Capital Projects Delivery Unit (CPDU)................................................................. 44 5. Human Resources, Economic Development & Emergency Services ... 49 5.1

Economic Development Division .......................................................................... 49

5.2

Local Enterprise Office ............................................................................................. 56

5.3

Emergency Services.................................................................................................. 61

6. Roads & Transportation................................................................................................. 65 6.1

National Roads Office ............................................................................................... 65

6.2

Roads Areas ................................................................................................................. 67

6.3

Central Technical Services ..................................................................................... 68

Report to Meeting of Donegal County Council on 28th September 2026 Management Report – September 2026

1.Finance, Corporate Services & Information Systems 1.1

Information Systems

1.1.1

Smart Bench Installed at Fort Dunree

Donegal County Council Information Systems section is proud to announce the installation of a new Smart Bench at Fort Dunree, an innovative addition to one of Donegal's most iconic heritage sites. The project represents a unique blend of heritage, innovation, design and digital technology; enhancing the visitor experience while celebrating the area's rich natural and cultural landscape. Located in the spectacular surroundings of Fort Dunree, the Smart Bench allows visitors to connect with the environment in new and engaging ways. Through integrated sensor technology and a supporting digital platform, users can access local environmental information including air quality, birdsong recordings and night-sky darkness monitoring, whilst taking in some of the most iconic views on the Wild Atlantic Way. The project was led by Donegal County Council Broadband Officer Daragh McDonough, working in collaboration with partners including Fort Dunree, Glenveagh and Connemara National Parks, Atlantic Technological University

(ATU), WiSAR Lab, ERNACT and the Data2Sustain initiative. The Council played a central role in bringing the concept to life, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and digital transformation. Developing digital tourism initiatives is a key action of the Donegal Digital Action Plan and it is facilitated by the rollout of Fibre connectivity through the National Broadband Plan. The Fort Dunree installation forms part of a network that also includes Smart Benches at Glenveagh and Connemara National Parks. We are delighted to have two landmark locations in Donegal where visitors can experience innovative technology in harmony with outstanding natural and heritage settings. The overall project was launched at Glenveagh National Park on August 20th by ATU President Orla Flynn and Donegal County Council Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr. Terry Crossan. This project further showcases how the Information Systems team supports better digital communities, digital services and rural transformation.

2.Planning, Communities & Culture 2.1 Planning Services The principal areas of responsibility for the Planning Services Division relates to development management, enforcement, planning policy, and architectural conservation services.

2.1.1

New Planning Legislation

The enactment of the 2024 Planning and Development Act represents a significant overhaul of the legislation that brings significant new demands on the Service with new time scales for decision making across several areas of work including preplanning advice, timescales associated with large-scale residential and commercial applications, and new responsibilities for monitoring and publishing data on the council’s website. To date only a limited elements of the Act have been commenced which includes the provisions associated with development plans and urban area plans. Draft regulations were circulated in late July with the commencement of significant provisions relating to development management, planning applications, enforcement and local authority development. Concerns and risks have been identified and raised due to the time frames proposed for this commencement. The draft 2026 regulations are currently under review for impacts to our IT systems as well as our day-to-day processes. We would welcome Members continued commitment for the delivery of resources to Planning Service under the Ministerial Action Plan for Planning Resources to facilitate the smooth transition to the new planning legislation.

2.1.2

Planning Policy

Variation No. 1 to the County Development Plan 2024-2030 On the 27th of July 2026 the Elected Members adopted Variation No. 1 to the CDP 2024-2030 which came into effect on the same day and includes: •

• •

New Area Plans for An Clochán Liath, Ballyshannon, Bridgend, Carndonagh, Donegal Town and Killybegs and associated Local Transport Plans. Amendments to the Buncrana Area Plan, the Letterkenny Plan, and the Ballybofey/Stranorlar Area Plan. Amendments to Settlement Frameworks for Laghy, Ardara, Creeslough, Dunfanaghy, Culdaff, Gleneely, Manorcunningham, and Newtowncunningham, a new Clachan for Drumoghill, and various other policy changes.

Both the Variation “as made” and the County Development Plan 2024-2030 (As varied) documentation have been published on www.donegaldevplan.ie and the Central Planning Unit has briefed the Development Management Section on key

changes arising out of the Variation. The Variation is currently being reviewed by the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) who may in turn make a recommendation to the Minister regarding a possible Draft Ministerial Direction regarding amendments to the Variation. Draft Casual Trading Byelaws Work is progressing on drafting the Casual Trading Bye Laws inclusive of updating the Draft Bye Laws to take account of issues discussed at members’ workshops, identifying additional proposed locations, amending proposed operating times, clarifying legal issues with the County solicitor and identifying post adoption enforcement mechanisms. The Executive hope to be able to bring the Draft Bye Laws to the November Council Meeting for consideration by the Elected Members. TEN-T Priority Route Improvement Project Donegal (PRIPD) The Central Planning Unit is continuing to assist the TEN-T PRIPD team in respect of preparing specific planning related responses to public submissions on foot of the application for the project which is currently before An Coimisiún Pleanála. Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIIF) The Planning Policy unit has been liaising with the Road Design section to identify suitable projects to deliver enabling infrastructure to unlock the development of housing sites in zoned settlements across all Municipal Districts. County Development Plan (CDP) Monitoring Report The Central Planning Unit has commenced work on a CDP Monitoring report as recommended in the Development Plan Guidelines inclusive of: • Core Strategy Monitoring (e.g. Housing completions and permissions, permissions for business and employment uses). • Development Plan Objectives Monitoring: Progress toward achieving specific plan objectives (e.g. strategic roads, active travel, community infrastructure etc). • Strategic Environmental Assessment Monitoring: Including monitoring the performance of the plan vis-à-vis the various environmental indicators identified in the Environmental Report.

2.1.3 Development Management: The scope of the service involves significant levels of activity across a number of areas of responsibility, principally involving the assessment of planning applications (1720 YTD in 2026) , but also involving a range of other case types (Pre-planning enquiries, general queries, licensing, compliance, Section 5s, RED III, LRD apps, etc) that continue to form a significant part of the service to the community. The actual number of planning applications received year to date in 2026 (1720 total) is higher than 2024 (1529 total) and 2025 (1614) for the same period. This reflects the continued increased activity in the sector, particularly in relation to the welcome increase in the number of applications for multiple housing projects. The profile of the overall workload includes significant indicators that reflect the growing complexity of case types and the obligations associated with robust decision making. We have also noted a significant increase in Section 5

applications. In 2025 we received a total of 112 applications, with 141 applications having been received for the first 8 months of 2026. The provisions of RED III (Renewable energy Applications) have also seen an increase since their commencement in August 2025. A total of 5 applications were received in 2025 with 13 having been received in 2026 YTD. • • • • • • •

Pre Planning Applications YTD = 163 (208 in 2025) Section 5 Application YTD = 141 (112 in 2025) Part V Application YTD = 23 (33 in 2025) Compliance Requests YTD = 126 (162 in 2025) Non-Material Deviation Requests YTD = 113 (130 in 2025) Appeals YTD = 61 (60 in 2025) RED III YTD = 13 (5 in 2025)

Donegal

Profile of Application 2026 YTD Stranorlar Glenties Letterkenny

Inishowen

County

Application Received Granted

308

206

313

424

469

1720

219

155

234

334

1276

Refused

Deferred

123

110

118

476

Invalid

282

Residential planning applications continue to make up significant proportion of applications generally and notable within recent trends has been an increase in the number of applications for multi-unit developments. While multi-unit applications have been received across the county, the large-scale residential developments (100 units and over) have occurred in Letterkenny and Donegal Town. Two LargeScale Residential Developments (LRD) applications have been received in 2026 with 346 units proposed for Letterkenny with a further 228 units proposed in Donegal Town. In addition, the supply relating to applications of residential units remains significant in the County with 2,456 new units (Table 3(b) permitted between 2022 and 2025 (CSO data) with a further 1,663 under the category of extensions / alterations / conversions (Table 3(c) between 2022 and 2025 (CSO data).

2.1.4

DCB Related Planning Applications:

In 2025 the Planning Service assessed and managed 216 applications (8.5% of all applications received) associated with the ongoing situation relating to defective concrete blocks. While most homeowners avail of the substantive exemptions that are provided under the remediation scheme, a limited number require planning approval arising from changes associated with the original dwelling. In total 652 such planning applications have been submitted since 2020, with the bulk of these (540) being submitted between 2023 and 2025.

DCB related Planning Applications 2020-2025 [total 652]

250

208

216

2024

2025

200 150

116

100

50 0

1 2020

2021

2022

2023

Distribution by Municipal District 2020-2025 Stranorlar, 56

other, 3

Donegal , 5

Glenties, 13

Letterkenny, 167

Inishowen, 408

Donegal

Glenties

Inishowen

Letterkenny

Stranorlar

other

2.1.5

E-Planning

The ePlanning system that enables planning applications to be submitted digitally went online in January 2024. Internal practices continue to be reviewed to enable the administration of both ePlanning applications and the traditional hard copy applications. The Planning Service have facilitated several online seminars with agents and architects to introduce the new system and this has contributed to an encouragingly high level of use of the new process. The take up of the ePlanning service by the sector continues to be encouraging with up to 95% of all applications being submitted and assessed using ePlanning.

2.1.6

Enforcement

The continued upward trend in the numbers of new complaints and caseload in the Enforcement Unit remains prevalent and continues to be a significant element of the function of the Planning Service, with the total number of open cases currently standing at 1,436. Resourcing of the unit is at its best level in a number of years and this accounts for the high number of cases being handled and managed weekly. The total number of historic, unresolved cases remains significant and within this overall caseload the focus is to address current complaints that are not statutebarred due to the passage of time, and to seek to resolve new unauthorised development complaints in a timely fashion, either by negotiation or by recourse to the court system. In order to better understand the number of warning letters and enforcement notices issued this year to date relative to the number of closures of cases this year, it should be noted that not all complaints result in the issuing of enforcement action and can often result in the generation of a ‘Dismissed following investigation’ (DFI) categorisation. A significant body of work is involved in DFI cases to determine if a complaint is an offense under the Planning and Development Act. Opening an enforcement case is a way of recording the body of work carried out during the assessment of any such cases. Notwithstanding if enforcement action is not taken, significant work and time is often expended prior to reaching this decision of DFI. 97 cases were closed following assessment and determination that no offense had occurred, whilst a further 70 cases were resolved by means of addressing the unauthorised development. Total No. Cases

Totals

1436

Total No. of New Cases 2026 to date 158

Warning Letters Issued 2026 to date

Enforcement Referred Notices for Issued 2026 Prosecution to date

Total No. of Closed Cases 2026

106

167, of which 97 DFI 70 Resolved

Emerging trends evident during 2025 and 2026 were: • Continuing reports of potential unauthorised developments related to temporary housing options such as mobile homes for both permanent occupation and holiday rentals. (but not related to remediation of homes affected by defective blocks) • A noticeable increase in the reporting of dwellings and properties in use for short term rentals/letting (e.g. AirBnBs) without the benefit of a relevant planning permission. • Casual trading has emerged as a notable class of unauthorised development during 2025, where vendors are stationary for long periods of time as opposed to trading on a limited causal basis before removing from the site. This relates to trading from coffee vans, hot food vendors and saunas, etc. The forthcoming draft Casual Trading byelaws will assist in terms of the regulation of such use. • Continued issues with unauthorised quarries and quarrying activity and the lack of progression of such matters through the courts system. • The commencement of the Enforcement provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2024 is an imminent challenge in terms of the need for updating of templates and adhering to new legislative requirements.

2.1.7

Conservation Services

Conservations services continue to provide direct advisory services to property owners of heritage buildings across the county and are heavily involved in securing central funding for vital heritage projects. Details of the value of such funding streams in 2026 to date are set out below. Total Allocated

Total Drawn Down

Built heritage Investment fund

€133,702

Ring Fenced Thatch (BHIS)

€79,368.93

Historic Structures Fund Thatch Mentorship Scheme Thatch Repair Grant Scheme Totals

€97,498 €25000 €33,000 €368,568.93

€97,498 €20000 €33,000 €363,568.93

2.2 2.2.1

Regeneration & Development Team Town and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund 2026

The Council is delighted that all four applications submitted under the Town and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund 2026 have been successful as announced by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD on the 14th September 2026. The four projects, including the funding allocation, are as follows:

• • • •

Letterkenny Transport Hub (construction works) - €9m (total project cost: €9.9m) Letterkenny Cultural Corridor (design services and construction works) €5.4m (total project cost: €7.1m) LK Green Connect Phase 2 (design services) - €150,000 (total project cost: €413k). Into Letterkenny (design services for improvements to Pearse Road and Port Road – from Station Roundabout to former Courthouse) - €150,000 (total project cost: €694k).

This substantial investment in four key Letterkenny projects represents a significant investment in the County. These funds will deliver and transform local infrastructure, enhance the public realm, and drive long-term economic growth while creating vibrant community spaces. The Council is awaiting the funding offer letters and will update the Members of the Municipal District further at that time.

2.3

Community Development

2.3.1

Clar Programme 2026

The 2026 CLAR Scheme was launched on 10th March, 2026. CLAR Measure 1 being administered by Local Authorities providing funding for developing Community Assets and Facilities. The Council has now submitted the following 16 applications to the value of €1.075m to the DRCDG following an application and evaluation process: •

Bruckless Community Centre: Application for €65,000 to improve pedestrian access and upgrade existing car parking facilities serving the sporting and recreational facilities available to the Bruckless community.

•

Burtonport Community Centre: Application for €65,000 to upgrade community facilities serving Burtonport and the wider West Donegal and Islands area.

•

C.L.G. Ghaoth Dobhair: Application for €65,000 to upgrade the existing catering provision and adjoining community spaces serving the Ghaoth Dobhair Gaeltacht and the wider West Donegal catchment area.

•

Carndonagh Tidy Towns: Application for €65,000 to improve access and upgrade existing car parking facilities and the associated public amenity at McSheffery's Bridge Car Park, Carndonagh.

•

Creevy Activity Hub CLG: Application for €100,000 to develop a community walkway, nature trail, and community garden adjacent to the recently developed Creevy Hub Astro Pitch.

•

Deele Harps FC: Application for €65,000 to develop a walking track around the

perimeter of the Deele Harps FC playing fields to provide a safe, fully accessible walking/running track for the wider community. •

Drumkeen Football & Community Park: Application for €65,000 to improve accessibility and enhance biodiversity at Drumkeen Football Club/Community Park grounds, further nurturing community inclusion for all.

•

Gleneely Colts FC Sports & Leisure Club CLG: Application for €65,000 to develop a walking track around the perimeter of the Gleneely Colts FC playing fields to provide a safe, fully accessible walking/running track for the wider community.

•

Ionad Naomh Fionnán: Application for €65,000 to extend the existing playground and redesign it to provide a more spacious, inclusive, safe, and engaging recreational space for children of all abilities.

•

IRD Milford Park Development: Application for €65,000 to improve access and upgrade existing car parking facilities serving the sporting and recreational facilities available to the Milford community.

•

Lárionad Acmhainní Nádúrtha CTR: Application for €65,000 to improve toilet and kitchen facilities at Cill Ulta, ensuring the site can continue to operate as a safe, accessible, and climate-resilient community hub.

•

Naomh Padraig Leifear GAA CLG: Application for €65,000 to resurface and enhance the existing car park/shared space, including drainage improvements, site clearance, and surfacing.

•

Raphoe Community Sports Ltd: Application for €65,000 to upgrade the existing car park facilities serving the Raphoe Community Sports Centre, improving safety and accessibility for community members and visitors.

•

Ray Community Group: Application for €65,000 to upgrade the existing access arrangements and associated car parking to improve safety and accessibility for all members of the community and visitors.

•

Realt na Mara GAA Club: Application for €65,000 to provide outdoor lighting for Realt na Mara, supporting an existing thriving community facility and enabling safe, accessible use throughout the year.

•

Redcastle Community Development: Application for €65,000 to enhance and improve the existing playing fields at Redcastle, serving the local community and wider area

2.4

Refugee Response Unit Update

Donegal County Council continues to support refugees through the Community Integration Forum, the Offer a Home Programme, and the Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT). The Community Integration Forum (CIF), chaired by the Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, works in collaboration with mainstream services, NGOs, and community and voluntary stakeholders on behalf of Ukrainian refugees, International Protection (IP) applicants, and those with Status. LAIT raises issues at its monthly meetings and brings them to the Community Integration Forum for guidance and action. Overall, the number of refugees has stabilised at 9,229, but relocation strategies have created significant turnover and ongoing challenges. Donegal has the highest number of refugees outside Dublin.

2.4.1

Refugee Accommodation

Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) – Commercial Accommodation •

As of 4 September 2026, Donegal has 24 commercial accommodation providers for BOTPs, hosting 460 residents.

•

Ten centres are due to close by the end of October 2026 , a further six by the end of November 2026, and all centres are expected to be closed by March 2027.

•

All 460 residents are expected to source their own accommodation, unless they successfully apply to transfer to a specialist Designated Accommodation Centre (DAC) through the Transitional Temporary Accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection in State-Contracted Commercial Accommodation scheme.

A total of 7,187 BOTPs (Ukraine) are currently residing in Donegal. International Protection (IP) Accommodation There are 29 International Protection Centres in Donegal, providing accommodation for 2,042 people, of whom 871 are children. The table below (correct as of 23 August 2026) breaks this down by Municipal District: Municipal District

No. of Centres

Total Occupancy

Of Whom Children

Letterkenny MD (Others)

Letterkenny Urban

1116

460

Glenties

Donegal

151

Municipal District

No. of Centres

Total Occupancy

Of Whom Children

Lifford / Stranorlar

458

216

Inishowen

175

TOTAL

2,042

871

Note: Figures for individual Municipal Districts total 28 centres; the county-wide narrative figure is 29 centres.

2.4.2

Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT)

The LAIT support team continues to provide one-to-one support to International Protection applicants, BOTPs (Ukrainian), those with Refugee, Subsidiary Protection, or Permission to Remain Status, and Programme Refugees. Support includes access to services such as: •

Healthcare

•

Welfare benefits

•

Language development

•

Cultural orientation

•

Employment

•

Education and training

All supports aim to help individuals live independently and fully integrate into the community. The team fulfils this role by identifying service needs and gaps and collaborating with other stakeholders to address them. Current LAIT Initiatives •

The LAIT continues to research the needs of the refugee population and provide interventions to address those needs.

•

Funding has recently been secured from the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Collaboration and Innovation Fund to deliver a county-wide programme strengthening understanding of the school system among our cohorts.

•

The Network of IPAS Centre Managers continues to meet quarterly, offering peer learning and specialised information sessions. The network is proving useful in coordinating the range of supports available to IP applicants as they navigate their integration journey.

•

The Refugee Response Advisory Panel, comprising representatives of refugees and asylum seekers in the county, is currently participating in animation and capacity-building sessions with the LAIT team, enabling them to represent their communities and provide the Council with information to better develop integration supports.

The priority issue for refugees and asylum seekers at present is the uncertainty around status and accommodation provisions going forward.

2.4.3

Legal and Policy Context

Two Parallel International Protection Procedures As of 12 June 2026, Ireland is temporarily running two parallel International Protection procedures: Legacy 2015 Act system: applications made before 12 June 2026 continue under the International Protection Act 2015, including related appeals, even though parts of the 2015 Act have been repealed. These older cases largely remain with the IPO/IPAT framework while they are worked through. New 2026 Act / EU Pact system: applications made from 12 June 2026 onward fall under the International Protection Act 2026, which gives effect to the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. It introduces screening on arrival, biometric/security/identity checks, tighter timelines, a border/accelerated procedure for some cases, and appeals to the new Tribunal for Asylum and Returns Appeals (TARA). Processing Trends Processing time is now faster, and having been in the country for a long period of time is no longer a benefit in the status application process. Refusals have already been rising before the new system, and increased staffing at the IPO means more decisions are being made at a faster rate. •

IPO decision output increased significantly in 2025, to over 20,000 decisions, from 14,000 in 2024.

•

2026 Act cases are still too new for reliable median processing-time data.

•

Accelerated cases are being processed much faster than standard cases.

•

Negative first-instance outcomes rose sharply, reaching around 81% in 2025.

•

Fast-track pilot reporting indicated a high refusal rate, around 89%.

Local Impact in Donegal In Donegal, some IPAS centres have changed to become “status only” centres. This results in people still in the application phase being transferred to other counties, while people with refugee or subsidiary protection status who are unable to source private accommodation are being transferred into Donegal. The closure of commercial accommodation, the reduction of Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) to €400 per month, and the requirement to earn a minimum salary of €29,432 to qualify for the Temporary Protection Transition Scheme are all causing difficulties among the BOTP population.

2.4.4

Comparative Analysis: State Housing and Benefit Frameworks

This section outlines the structural divisions in housing benefits, state-provided

accommodation, and financial welfare between International Protection Applicants (IPAs) and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) in Ireland. Fundamental Split in Housing and State Resources •

The Structural Divide: a fundamental split exists between how IPAs and BOTPs access state resources and housing benefits such as the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

•

Legal Equivalency: “Leave to Remain” (legally, Permission to Remain) behaves identically to full Refugee Status regarding housing, welfare, and Stamp 4 entitlements.

Direct Housing and Benefit Breakdown International Protection Applicants (Pre-Stamp 4) State Housed in dedicated IPAS Centres (Direct Provision), Accommodation managed by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), while legal claims are processed. Housing / HAP

Completely excluded from local authority social housing lists and the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).

Financial Assistance

Entitled strictly to the Daily Expenses Allowance (€38.80 per adult / €29.80 per child).

Emergency Supports

Can access discretionary Additional Needs Payments for one-off urgent costs, such as children's school uniforms.

Leave to Remain / Refugee Status Granted (Post-Stamp 4) State Enter a Transition Phase, exiting IPAS centres. Continued Accommodation residency in state accommodation has no negative bearing on keeping status (note: recent initiatives have established ‘status only’ commercial centres). Housing / HAP

Gain full, mainstream access to Social Housing Support on the same basis as an Irish citizen. Once approved by a local council, can immediately select a private landlord and use HAP.

Financial Assistance

Transition completely out of the asylum system allowance and can apply for standard welfare streams, including Jobseeker's Allowance and Disability Allowance.

Family Support

Eligible for mainstream Child Benefit payments.

Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (Pre-Stamp 4) State Provided with emergency shelter in UCTAT Centres (Arrival Accommodation and Designated Accommodation Centres). New arrivals face a strict 90-day stay cap in these facilities. Housing / HAP

Completely excluded from HAP and the standard local authority housing list.

Community Living

If choosing to live independently in the community, must self-fund housing, though an independent host may receive the Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP).

Financial Assistance

Receive a reduced €38.80 weekly allowance if residing in UCTAT state housing. If living independently, can apply for mainstream Department of Social Protection (DSP) welfare payments. BOTP Transition Scheme (Post-Stamp 4)

State Completely barred from state housing. Applicants must Accommodation fully move out of UCTAT-managed or state-supported accommodation into the private sector before applying. Housing / HAP

Completely barred from state housing aid. The core condition of the visa is absolute self-sufficiency; using local authority lists or HAP will disqualify the applicant or revoke the status.

Financial Assistance

No access to standard social welfare or emergency state resources, as doing so breaks the economic conditions of the visa.

Family Support

Mainstream Child Benefit remains accessible as part of a fully independent, working family unit.

Key Takeaways on the System Models The Integration Model (IPAs / Leave to Remain) •

Poverty Alleviation: once an IPA receives Refugee Status or Permission to Remain, they automatically get a Stamp 4 card, deliberately pulling them out of state dependency and poverty.

•

Proactive State Aid: the State actively helps them register for social housing and secure HAP to transition successfully into Irish society.

•

No Financial Barrier: there is no income or employment threshold required to receive or maintain this Stamp 4 permission. Legal protection status is determined purely on humanitarian grounds, and living in an IPAS centre does not impact eligibility.

The Economic Model (BOTP Transition Scheme) •

Economic Visa Framework: the Temporary Protection Transition Scheme treats the Stamp 4 visa strictly as an economic, earned pathway.

•

Residency for Independence: the State grants long-term residency stability and a path to Irish citizenship (reckonable residency), with no state burden.

•

Strict Guardrails: seeking housing aid (HAP), returning to state accommodation, or falling below the mandatory €29,432 gross annual income requirement explicitly breaks the visa conditions and results in disqualification from the scheme.

2.5

Cultural Services

2.5.1

Library Services

2.5.1.1

Capital Investment for Public Libraries

The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht have approved funding of €95,000 under the 2026 Targeted Small Scale Investment Fund for Public Libraries. This funding will be used to upgrade sensory facilities and library furniture and equipment in Central Library, Letterkenny. A portion of the funding will also be used to upgrade ICT facilities in library branches across the County. 2.5.1.2

Wainfest Children’s Arts and Books Festival to celebrate 30 years anniversary in October

Wainfest 2026, Donegal’s children’s arts and book festival, will mark its 30th anniversary with a celebratory launch event in Oakfield Park on 29th September, officially opening the festival programme which runs from 10th to 18th October. The festival will feature over 100 free events for schools, families and children across Donegal, taking place in libraries, schools, community venues and outdoor settings, with some events streamed directly into classrooms and family-friendly activities scheduled during evenings and weekends. One of Ireland’s largest children’s book festivals, Wainfest is supported through library budgets, with additional funding from the Department of Culture, Communication and Sport, the EU Presidency Cultural Programme and DLDC for Irish language events.

Children enjoying a previous Wainfest Festival Photo Credit: Paul McGuckin

2.5.1.3

National Public Library Open Day

National Public Libraries Open Day will take place on Saturday, 26 September 2026, encouraging people to “Take a Closer Look” at their local library and the wide range of services available. The primary objective is to attract new users, strengthening engagement and increase library membership. The campaign will emphasise the value of free library membership, highlighting libraries as inclusive hubs that support learning, wellbeing, creativity and community connection for all.

Logo for upcoming National Public Library Open Day

2.5.1.4

EU Commemorative Programme

A key event in Donegal’s EU Presidency Programme will take place in Glenties on Monday, 5th October with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque honouring Paweł Edmund Strzelecki. The Polish explorer and humanitarian is remembered for his significant famine relief work in Ireland, which helped forge enduring links between Ireland and Poland. The plaque will serve as a lasting tribute to this shared heritage and will further strengthen Irish-Polish cultural connections. https://www.donegalculture.ie/en/explore/festivals-programmes/eu-presidencyprogramme/

2.5.2 2.5.2.1

Arts Office 18th Annual Culture Night

Donegal County Council Culture Division will present its 18th annual Culture Night programme on Friday, 18th September as part of the free, all-island celebration of culture, heritage, creativity and the arts. The programme will include events led by Culture Division and local cultural groups across the county. Highlights include Donegal County Museum’s Rockwell Kent - An American in Donegal exhibition and a preview of Shaun Byrne’s new play As I Lay Dreaming, Inisowiacy Polish Folk Group at An Grianán Theatre Plaza, alongside Inishowen Carnival’s new spectacle show, Spirit Animals, in Bernard McGlinchey Town Park, Letterkenny. Additional events will take place in Buncrana, Ramelton, Donegal Town and Ballyshannon, with Ealaíon na Gaeltachta supporting a programme of traditional

music, song, storytelling and children’s events across Gaeltacht communities including Gaoth Dobhair, Árainn Mhór, Toraigh, Rann na Feirste, Cill Chartha and Ardara. Full programme information will be available on the Donegal County Council website and at www.culturenight.ie.

2.5.2.2

26th Donegal Bay and Blue Stacks Festival

The 26th Donegal Bay and Blue Stacks Festival will take place from Friday, 25th September to Sunday, 11th October, with events across South and South-West Donegal, including Ballyshannon, Bundoran, Rossnowlagh, Donegal Town, Leghowney, Gleann Cholm Cille and Glenties, as well as Ballybofey and Stranorlar. Festival highlights will include LUXE Landscape Theatre’s new Women of The Waves spectacle on Rossnowlagh Beach on Saturday evening, 3rd October, presented as part of the national Cultural Programme marking Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union. The programme will also feature new theatre works by Little John Nee, Fiona Maria Fitzpatrick, Conor Malone, Gráinne Curristan and Shaun Byrne, Donegal Drama Circle’s production of Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa, the Carnival Parade in Ballyshannon in partnership with Erne Enterprise Development, performances by Donegal Voices, and a special concert by Zoë Conway and John McIntyre in Donegal Castle. Full programme information will be available on www.donegalbaybluestacks.ie and on the Donegal County Council website.

2.5.3 2.5.3.1

Regional Cultural Centre Summer Programme | June – August

The Regional Cultural Centre has enjoyed a very successful summer programme, with high visitor numbers across exhibitions, live events and an expanded programme of activities for children and families. Exhibitions: The summer visual arts programme featured Gvozdene Kapije (The Iron Gates) by Barbara Knežević alongside The Rain Tells Us Everything by Catherine McDonald, Katie Nolan and Niamh Schmidtke, attracting strong visitor numbers throughout July and August. Concerts: July saw a busy programme of concerts presented in association with Earagail Arts Festival, bringing a diverse range of Irish and international artists to the RCC and attracting strong audiences throughout the festival period. Family Engagement: The new RCC Kids summer programme has proved particularly successful, combining a free, large-scale hands-on Art Room with weekly Mini Cinema screenings and a series of facilitated art workshops, significantly expanding opportunities for children and families to engage with the RCC during the school holidays.

2.5.4

County Donegal Heritage Office

2.5.4.1

‘Working Over By’ Exhibition

The ‘Working Over By: Donegal Emigrant Working Lives in Scotland’ project has been shortlisted for the Heritage & Built Environment Award at the forthcoming Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards in November 2026. The project highlighted the occupations, working conditions and work experiences of Donegal men and women in Scotland between 1940 and 1990. The project is an initiative of the Culture Division (Heritage Office, Museum, Archives & Regional Cultural Centre) of Donegal County Council and the Mellon Centre for Migration Studies as part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan. The travelling exhibition run in the Glasgow City Archives has been extended again and it is hoped to bring the exhibition to Dundee in November.

2.5.4.2

Heritage Week in County Donegal

National Heritage Week took place from Saturday, August 15 to Sunday, August 23 and was a tremendous success with over 160 events taking place in County Donegal – the largest number of events ever recorded for Heritage Week in the county. The Culture Division of Donegal County Council organised, sponsored or hosted over 20 events. National Heritage Week is coordinated by The Heritage Council and Local Authority Heritage Officers. Nominations are now open to the National Heritage Week Awards until Tuesday, September 15. The National Heritage Week Awards ceremony will take place in the Grand Hall, RDS, Dublin on Thursday, October 29.

2.5.4.3

Our Shared Thatch Inheritance

In partnership with Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, the County Donegal Heritage Office secured €37,971 in funding for a cross-border project entitled ‘Our Shared Thatch Inheritance’. The thatching skills deficit across the island of Ireland is well documented and there has been an alarming decline in historic thatch in County Donegal and in Northern Ireland in recent years. The focus of this initiative is sharing knowledge, and supporting and promoting traditional skills in relation to the vernacular thatch tradition in northwest Ireland. The aims of the project are to explore the opportunities for, and barriers to, the hosting of ‘live’ thatching projects in training programmes; to design and construct a life-size outdoor rope thatching rig at the Donegal Thatching School; and to promote thatching skills in open-air museum environments and demonstrate their potential for continuing professional development, training and tourism promotion.

Master rope thatcher Brian Lafferty (left) pictured with David McFerran (right) who participated in Donegal County Council's pilot Rope Thatch Mentorship Scheme. Photo: Joseph Gallagher

2.5.5 2.5.5.1

Biodiversity Office Biodiversity Office Coordinated events for National Heritage Weeks, August 2026

Donegal County Council Biodiversity Office teamed up with some fantastic environmental educators during National Heritage Week to learn about biodiversity in County Donegal and our Heritage at Risk. From Butterfly Identification to Explore Your Shore workshops, a Sand dune safari to a Really Wild quiz for kids, there was plenty to choose from. Workshops were funded by Donegal County Council with funding support from the Heritage Council through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund and through NPWS’s Local Biodiversity Action Fund 2026.

Group identifying butterlies and moths in Swan Park. Photo: DCC

Really Wild Table Quiz at Central Library, Letterkenny Photo: Aengus Kennedy

3.Environment & Climate, Property Mgt. & DCBS 3.1 3.1.1

Environment Climate Action Week 2026 – 12th to 18th October 2026

This year, Climate Action Week is scheduled nationally from 12th-18th October 2026 and the DCC Climate Action Unit are currently compiling an outline schedule of events. Climate Action Week: Launch Event Donegal County Council are organising an event to launch Climate Action Week 2026 in Donegal, which will take place on Monday, 12th October 2026 at 10.00am – 8pm in Aura Leisure Centre, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. This event will be our flagship event for Climate Action Week and will mark the beginning of a week of activities aimed at promoting climate awareness, community engagement and practical climate action across County Donegal. The aim of the event itself is to showcase the positive climate actions taking place in Letterkenny across a wide range of organisations including Donegal County Council, local schools and community groups. It will bring together elected members, community representatives, schools, stakeholders and members of the public to highlight the importance of collective action in addressing climate change with information available on Energy & Retrofit, Active Travel and Roads Infrastructure projects, Regeneration projects, Circular Economy, Biodiversity and Sustainable Food. This is a public drop-in event and there will be an official opening at 10am followed by various presentations and workshops throughout the day. There will be a large variety of information on a range of climate-related topics from a range of organisations. In the evening we will have a number of guest speakers including our Keynote Speaker Claire Irwin from “Room to Improve”. A full programme for the day will be advertised in advance. Donegal County Council is committed to advancing climate action at local level through the implementation of the Donegal County Council Climate Action Plan 2024 - 2029 with practical initiatives, public engagement and partnership working across our communities. The launch of Donegal’s Climate Action Week 2026 will provide an important opportunity to showcase this work and to reinforce the shared national and local effort required to deliver a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. Climate Action Week Grant for Community Groups 2026 The Climate Action Unit are also reaching out to local climate action contacts for Expressions of Interest in hosting an event, that supports one or more of the following themes: • Biodiversity • Grow Your Own • Energy • Sustainable Travel • Circular Economy eg.Repair & Reuse

Grant funding up to €500 will be available to community groups to host a climate action event during Climate Action Week or during the month of October. Details of the Climate Action Week Grant for Community Groups will be advertised in the coming weeks.

3.1.2

Bulky Good Collection

The Half Price Bulky Waste Campaign is taking place at all six Recycling Centres in partnership with Bryson Recycling and supported through the Anti-Dumping Initiative 2026. The campaign aims to reduce illegal dumping, encourage responsible waste disposal and support circular economy objectives. Householders can avail of reduced disposal charges on a range of bulky household items including mattresses, carpets, timber, sanitary ware, large outdoor toys, tiles and small amounts of rubble. The promotion will run: •

17 to 29 August 2026 at Stranorlar, Laghey and Dungloe Recycling Centres

•

7 to 19 September 2026 at Carndonagh, Milford and Letterkenny Recycling Centres.

3.1.3

Climate Course for Over 55s

A free 6 week Climate Change Course for over 55 years, that aims to improve understanding of climate change through practical, locally relevant examples commences in September 2026. The programme will run on 16, 23 and 30 September 2026, 7 and 14 October 2026 and 2 December 2026. The initiative forms part of Donegal County Council's ongoing climate action awareness programme and seeks to support greater community understanding and engagement with climate action at a local level. Registration forms are available in libraries throughout Donegal or contact rmahony@donegalcoco.ie

3.1.4

Hazardous Waste

As a recommendation of the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan 2021-2027 (NHWMP), DAFM and DCEE in conjunction with stakeholders are facilitating six Farm Hazardous Waste collections to take place across the country during September and October 2026. The Donegal collection will take place at Ballybofey and Stranorlar Livestock Mart, Railway Road, Stranorlar, Co. Donegal, F93 E127 on Wednesday 2 September 9-4pm.

3.1.5

WEE Ireland Recycling Collection Events

WEEE Ireland will host a series of free electrical recycling collection events across County Donegal during October and November 2026. Residents will have the opportunity to recycle unwanted electrical items and batteries free of charge. The confirmed collection dates and locations are: •

Saturday, 24 October 2026, The Shore Car Park, Killybegs, 10am to 4pm

• •

Saturday, 31 October 2026, Naomh Conaill GAA Club, Glenties, 10am to 4pm Saturday, 7 November 2026, Dennis McCallion's Yard, Falcarragh, 10am to 4pm

A media campaign including radio, print and social media advertising will be rolled out by WEEE Ireland closer to the event dates. Local promotion will play an important role in maximising public awareness and participation to help increase recycling rates and support the proper disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment.

3.1.6

Free Compost Events Across Donegal Recycling Centres

As part of National Food Waste Recycling Week, Donegal County Council in partnership with Bryson Recycling and EnviroGrind Ltd, hosted a series of free compost giveaway events across the county's six recycling centres from 28 to 30 July 2026. The initiative encouraged householders to recycle food waste correctly and highlighted the environmental benefits of diverting organic waste from landfill. The campaign focused on improving both the quality and quantity of food waste recycling by reducing contamination and encouraging the correct use of certified compostable liners.

3.1.7

South Donegal Clean Sweep Projects

The Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI) introduced in 2017 aims to encourage collaboration between local authorities, communities and other state Agencies to tackle the problem of illegal dumping. It is an annual program run in conjunction with local authorities and community partnerships coordinated by the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLA’s). In 2026 ADI funding was secured to undertake clean ups throughout County Donegal and nearly 46 tonnes of waste was removed from locations in South Donegal alone. This waste included construction and demolition type waste, green waste, mixed household and commercial waste and bituminous material.

3.1.8

Rural Water Update – September 2026

County Donegal Group Water Scheme Sector Donegal has a considerable high number of Group water Schemes (GWS) within our rural water sector. The status of Donegal’s GWSs is listed below; • 281 no. Public GWS’s receiving their water from Uisce Éireann • 4 no. Private GWS’s serving more than 50 consumers • 60 no. Private GWS’s serving less than 50 consumers Group Water Scheme Taking in Charge Requests There are 83 GWS’s which have submitted Taking in Charge requests to Donegal County Council and 42 have been Taken in Charge by ÚÉ (plus an additional 18 Orphan GWSs). The promoters or trustees of any group water scheme that wishes to be considered for taking in charge should do so by writing to the Rural Water Liaison Officer, Donegal County Council, County House, Lifford or by emailing ruralwater@donegalcoco.ie.

Letterbrick A funding application was approved on 16/07/26 by the Department of Housing and Local Government for the connection of the Letterbrick area to the public water supply. Funding of €1,457,610 was approved to deliver to this project. A call for tender competition is currently open on eTenders platform for the procurement of engineering services to deliver this project. It is estimated that a consultant will be appointed for this project in Q4 2026. Multi Annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026 A number of GWSs received funding under the Multi Annual Rural Water Programme under various measures. A summary of progress for these projects is set out below: Project/Scheme Name

Measure

Comments

Dunlewey GWS

A2(a) - Water Treatment Improvements

GWS have appointed contractor to carry out upgrade works.

Tory GWS (Offshore Island)

A2(a) - Water Treatment Improvements

Ballymagaraghy GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

GWS are running a trial GAC treatment system at the moment and will continue until throughout 2026. The GWS, with assistance from the LA, is finalising appointment of consultants to carry out the required design works. Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA have received a connection offer from UÉ.

Conwal GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. UÉ Connection offer has been paid.

Drumanail GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Drumaweir GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Glengad GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA have resubmitted the UÉ connection application. Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA have responded to UÉ queries in relation to connection application. Works to commence in September under the UÉ Connection Services team.

Lurganboyce GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Preliminary Design almost complete. SI contractor has been appointed, and works are due to commence shortly. Connection offer received from UÉ and paid.

Maghera GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Meenatole, Booragh, Breaghy, Newtownfore GWSs

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Milltown GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

At Detail Design Stage. SI contractor has been appointed, and works are due to commence shortly. Connection offer received from UÉ and to be paid once one condition is clarified from UÉ. Preliminary Design almost complete. SI contractor has been appointed, and works are due to commence shortly. Connection offer received from UÉ and paid. Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA have responded to UÉ queries in relation to connection application.

Moyles-Glenvar GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Meenabool GWS

A4(b) Infrastructure upgrades

Meenabool GWS Dunlewey Extension Tory Island GWS

A3(a) Amalgamation

A2(a) - Water Treatment Improvements

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. UÉ connection application to be submitted in the next 3 months. GWS gathering signatures for consent forms. Contractor has been appointed and construction is underway since June 2026. Contractor has been appointed and construction is underway since June 2026. GWS are running a trial GAC treatment system at the moment and will continue until throughout 2026. The GWS, with assistance from the LA, is finalising appointment of consultants to carry out the required design works.

Townawilly GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Awaiting connection agreement from UÉ. In the process of obtaining wayleaves from the GWS for the existing network for the purposes of TiC. Contractor appointed. Construction due to start in Q3 2026.

Donegal Bundle 1 (Carricknahorna)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

All GWSs in this measure are now TiC.

Donegal Bundle 2 (Castlereagh)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Glenties Bundle 1 (Magheraroarty)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Rural Water team have tried to contact GWS to get signatures from GWS. LA will continue to try get someone from GWS to complete consent form. TiC of GWS complete. Legal fees for land transfer to follow once complete.

Glenties Bundle 2 (Ardcrone/Craughe yboyle, Magheraclogher, Meenacross, Shallogans, Meenderry)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Some GWSs in this bundle have started collecting signatures and some initial surveys carried out by rural water team. Awaiting consent forms from a number of GWSS in this Bundle. One GWS submitted to UÉ for TiC.

Inishowen Bundle 1 (Ballymacarthur No. 1, Craig Road, Glengad Mountain, Gleneely)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

One GWS in this bundle TiC. It is expected that more GWSs in this bundle will be submitted for TiC in 2026, however it depends on GWSs completing their sections of the TiC application forms. Two GWS currently gathering remaining signatures. It is expected works on Ballymacarthur No. 1 will be required including a pumping station. It is expected that the M&E works will be procured once signatures are obtained.

Inishowen Bundle 2 (Castleforward No. 1, Mindoran, Three Glens & Falmore, Carrowhill, Three Trees, Upper Ballyargus, Castlecraw/ Craigtown)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Some GWSs in this bundle have started collecting signatures and some initial surveys carried out by rural water team. Awaiting consent forms from a number of GWSS in this Bundle.

Letterkenny Bundle 1 (Cranford No. 2, Gortin, Tirhomin, Killyclug/Gortnacor rib, Tullygay. Ballygallon/ Breenagh, Legnahoorey)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Letterkenny Bundle 2 (Drumacloghan/ Fawninaughan, Stracaddy, Glenkoe, Killycreen/Carygaul t, Golan No.2, Carnasaul, Churchill) Lifford Stranorlar Bundle 1 (Cronalaghey, Corcashey, Stralongford, Upper Corraine)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Contractor is appointed to carry out works on this bundle and programmed to be on site over the next month. 2GWS TiC, 1 GWS submitted for TiC and awaiting confirmation, 1 GWS has a contractor on site carrying out works and should be TiC upon completion, final two GWS are in the final stages and should be submitted to UÉ in the coming months. Some GWSs in this bundle have started collecting signatures and some initial surveys carried out by rural water team. Awaiting consent forms from a number of GWSS in this Bundle.

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

2 GWSs are TiC. Remaining GWSs required M&E works which are complete, but snagging remains. TiC application to be submitted once complete.

Letterkenny Bundle 3 (Glenmaquin)

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

It is expected works on this GWS will be required including 2 pumping stations. Civil works to Pumping Stations is procured and works expected to commence in Q3 2026.

Ballyboe/Iskaheen/ Aught GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Technical Assessment near complete, however Civil & M&E Works required. Procurement documents for M&E works being prepared and to be published on eTenders in the next few months.

Carn High GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Consent form from GWS required. Rural Water team have made some initial enquiries from UÉ.

Collon (Tiernaleague), Cruck, Gortnacool/Foden, Gleneely No 2 GWSs Coole Cranford GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

GWSs are collecting signatures for Consent forms.

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Corlea, Derrykillew, The Mullans, Upper Behy, Wardtown, Cashel Hill, Corker (Rosnowlagh) GWSs Desertegney, Criselmore/Criselke el, Tullydish, Clongash/Aghilly GWSs

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026. Some GWSs have been furnished with the consent forms for completion. LA to contact the remaining GWSs to progress project.

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Preparation of Procurement documents for M&E works for 2 GWS in progress. Remaining GWSs have been furnished with consent forms.

Dunlewey GWS

LA awaiting submission of quotations from GWS before works can begin.

Dunlewey GWS

Dunlewey GWS Extension

Measure A4 Improvement of infrastructure incl Water Conservation Measure A4 Improvement of infrastructure incl Water Conservation Measure A3 Amalgamation

Garryharry, Woodlands, Aughnagaddy, Legnahoorey East, Calhame No. 2 GWSs

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Awaiting information from GWSs such as completed consent forms or legal confirmation of ownership such a reservoir.

LA awaiting submission of quotations from GWS before works can begin.

LA awaiting Draft Tender Submission from consultant before it is published on eTenders

Glencoagh, Edrim Glebe, Raneely, Ednamock/Drimahe rk, Doorin Rock Road GWSs

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Projects to commence in the coming months. Rural Water Team to engage with GWSs.

Glenmakee GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Preparation of Procurement documents for M&E works for GWS in progress and to be published in the coming months.

Inish Bó Finne GWS (Off-shore Island)

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026. GWS collecting signatures from Consent form.

Laghey Bar GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Legan GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Meederryhirk & Brocagh GWS)

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Meenatotten GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

LA to engage with GWS and progress project.

Meenavean GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Meenmore/Meenati nny GWS

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

GWS have been furnished with the consent forms. Awaiting completions of consent forms.

Momeen/Magheracl oy, Lettermakenny, Ballinaglack, Priestown/Maghera ppin, Trycallen, The Tops GWSs

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

One GWS in this bundle is TiC. LA to contact other GWSs in this bundle to progress.

Uaigh GWS (Offshore Island)

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Porthaw, Cleenagh/Ballymag an GWSs

Measure A6 Taking-incharge of Group Water Schemes

Toragh GWS

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Porthaw GWS on hold as a new application may be made under the new programme for the TiC of the Group Sewage Scheme. TiC application for Cleenagh/Ballymagan to commence in the coming months. Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Tory GWS (Offshore Island)

Measure A4 Improvement of infrastructure incl Water Conservation

GWS is finalising appointment of a consultant to progress all works required.

Tory GWS (Offshore Island)

Measure A4 Improvement of infrastructure incl Water Conservation

GWS is finalising appointment of a consultant to progress all works required.

Rathdonnell No 1 GWS, Rathdonnell No 2 GWS, Rathconnell No 3 GWS, Sockar GWSs

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Inish Mhic an Dorin GWS (Off-shore Island)

A6(a) - Quality deficiency private GWSs

Consultants appointed in July, design works ongoing. LA will submit the connection application to UÉ in Q3 2026.

Multi Annual Rural Water Programme 2027-2029 The Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme was announced by the Minister for the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on 27/07/26. The terms and conditions of the latest programme are similar to the previous programme. There are 8 funding measures available which are listed below: 1. Source Protection 2. Water Treatment Provision, Improvement and Capital Replacement. 3. Amalgamation/ Rationalisation 4. Water Conservation, Leakage Reduction and Prevention 5. Extensions to Existing GWSs and New GWSs 6. Takin in Charge of GWSs 7. Community Water and Community Wastewater Connections 8. Innovative Demonstration Projects The deadline for submitting applications to the Local Authority is 23/10/26. This will allow sufficient time for the Rural Water team to submit all applications to the Department by the 20/11/26 deadline. Any prospective applications should be sent to ruralwater@donegalcoco.ie . Please note that any late applications will not be accepted.

3.2

Defective Concrete Blocks Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme - Activity Report as at 31st August 2026

Summary

Donegal County Council, as a Designated Local Authority, continues to administer the Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage. The primary aim of the Enhanced Grant Scheme is to assist homeowners, impacted and affected by the presence of deleterious materials, to remediate their homes. The volume of activity across all aspects of the Enhanced Scheme continues to trend upwards in 2026, with a rise in both the number of homeowners submitting applications to the Scheme and undertaking remedial works. This Activity Report provides an update on the implementation of the Enhanced Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme and covers the period up to and including 31st August 2026.

4500 4000

3991

DCB Scheme Overview as at 31st August 2026

3500

2856

3000 2500 2000

1538

1500

1071

1000

434

500 0

Online Registrations

Applications Received

Approved Remediation Option & Grant Amount Issued

Works Commenced

Works Completed Works Ongoing

Approvals & Payments

€ Approved

€ Paid

€553,341,161

€283,407,477

637

4. Housing, MD Services & Capital Projects 4.1 Housing & MD Services 4.1.1 Housing Delivery Action Plan (HDAP) 2027-2030 The Housing, MD Services and Capital Projects Directorate is currently finalising the Housing Delivery Action Plan (HDAP) 2027-2030. The Department of Housing has provided a housing delivery target of 882 over the period of the Plan however the pipeline of delivery for Donegal will present projects that exceed this figure, aiming to address existing levels of social housing need in the county. As part of this process, Donegal County Council is engaging with the Approved Housing Bodies (AHB) sector across County Donegal to establish their current and proposed housing delivery programmes and development pipelines. The information gathered through this engagement will inform the preparation of the HDAP and outline the AHB social housing pipeline for the period 2027-2030. 4.1.2 Northern & Western Regional Assembly ERDF Social Housing Scheme Donegal County Council has recently secured funding approval of €4,024,628 under the Northern & Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) ERDF Social Housing Scheme. The approved funding allocation will support the refurbishment and upgrade of 15 social housing units across the county. This investment will enhance the quality, energy efficiency and long-term sustainability of the Council's housing stock, ensuring that the homes continue to meet the needs of tenants. Projects are progressing to the Project Development Phase to progress the detailed design and procurement stages.

4.1.3 Approved Housing Bodies (AHB’s) Donegal County Council continues to work closely with Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to advance the delivery of social housing throughout the county through the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) and Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) funding programmes. A number of AHB-led housing developments have recently been completed and are now providing much-needed homes, while several other projects are currently progressing on site. These developments have received Departmental funding approval under either the CAS or CALF funding streams and are contributing significantly to the delivery of high-quality social housing across Donegal. The projects are outlined below:

Location

Funding Stream

Project Status

No. of Units

CALF

Completed and tenanted

CALF

Completed and tenanted

HabintegHousing Association (Ireland) CLG

CAS

On-Site, Due for completion by year end, subject to statutory compliance

Respond

CAS

On-Site

Co-Operative Housing Ireland Society Ltd

CALF

On-Site, Due for completion by year end, subject to statutory compliance

iCare Housing CLG

CALF

To commence September 2026

AHB

Clúid Housing Association Ardán Rua, (Phase 1) Killylastin, Clúid Housing Association Letterkenny (Phase 2) Raphoe Road, Castlefin Fairhill Lodge, Dungloe Shilling Hill, Milltown, Convoy Barnes Court, Ballybofey

124

Raphoe Road, Castlefin

The Council is also currently in receipt of a further four CALF applications proposing the delivery of an additional 143 social housing units. These applications are being prioritised and will be incorporated into the table above, upon receipt of departmental approval. Donegal County Council has recently established the Co. Donegal AHB Forum which provides a structured platform for engagement and collaboration with Approved Housing Bodies, facilitating the sharing of information on housing priorities, emerging opportunities, funding programmes, and strategic housing developments.

4.1.4 Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme Donegal County Council has been allocated €10,070,000 under the Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme to carry out energy efficiency upgrade works on 265 social housing units during 2026. This represents an average investment of approximately €38,000 per dwelling. The allocation is the second-highest awarded to any local authority in the country and represents the largest level of funding secured by Donegal County Council under the programme since its introduction in 2021. This significant investment will support the Council's ongoing commitment to improving the energy performance of its housing stock, reducing energy costs for tenants, enhancing living standards, and contributing to national climate action and carbon reduction targets.

4.1.5 Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People The Council was awarded a total of a total of €4,932,554 to fund private housing grants for adaptation and improvement works for eligible older persons and people with disabilities across County Donegal. The funding supports three grant schemes administered by the Council: • • •

Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People (up to €40,000); Housing Aid for Older People Grant (up to €10,700); and Mobility Aids Grant Scheme (up to €8,000).

To date, works have completed to 554 properties in the county at a cost of €3.25m (66%).

4.2 Housing Capital 4.2.1 Social Housing Delivery Pipeline Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2027 - 2030 has set out a social housing targets of 822 for County Donegal. The below table provides an outline of all projects currently being progressed under multiple delivery models. Summary Table Project Status Completed On Site Tendering process complete – contractor appointment stage Planning granted - currently at Tender or Advanced Design Stage

No. of units 464 684 121 786

Photographs of complete and ongoing social housing developments

Photo 1 – 21 unit social housing development at Windyhall, Letterkenny reaches final completion)

Photo 2 & 3 – Ongoing Development Works at Rockytown Buncrana (54 units)

Photo 4: Ongoing Development Works at Oran Hill, Letterkenny (30 units)

Photo 5: Ongoing Development at Cois Abhainn, St. Johnston (30 units)

Photo 6: SI at Cnoc an Chaocháin, Anagaire

Photo 7: Ongoing Development at Lifford Common (60 units)

Photo 8: Ongoing Development at Drumrooske Middle, Donegal Town (62 units)

4.3 Capital Projects Delivery Unit (CPDU) The CPDU Division covers three separate sections: 1. Major Projects 2. Building Control & Taking in Charge 3. Community Capital unit (transferred from the Community Development Division on 5th May 2026) The range of projects currently being managed are as follows. 4.3.1

Major Projects

•

Fort Dunree: In partnership with Fáilte Ireland, this project proposes to transform the Fort Dunree visitor experience, providing new public spaces, refurbishing existing infrastructure and provision of a new glass walkway. Work is underway to prepare a fresh application to An Coimisiún Pleanála for submission by end 2026.

•

Riverine Community Park: This project proposes a cross border community park (Lifford and Strabane) over thirty acres including a pavilion, events space, play areas, bridge, and walkways. The project is funded under the PEACEPLUS programme. Commencement of the construction procurement process and is expected to commence in early Q4 2026.

•

Burtonport Harbour to Arranmore Island Regeneration – Phase 2: The Burtonport Harbour to Island Regeneration (Phase 2) project proposes a ferry terminal building and enterprise space at the harbour in Ailt an Chorráin. Work commenced on site in August 2024. Completion of this project is now expected in Sept/ October 2026.

•

Carndonagh Tús Nua Regeneration: In partnership with Spraoi agus Spórt, this project will see the delivery of a Co-working Hub, Fablab, Creative Hub and public realm infrastructure. Land acquisition negotiations are continuing. Construction tenders have been returned higher than the funding available. DRCDG have confirmed that they are not in a position to provide an uplift and alternative options are being explored in consultation with the successful tenderer.

•

Ballybofey & Stranorlar ‘SEED’ Project: This project proposes a public realm outdoor space, car parking and enterprise development in the town center. An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed the CPO in January in January however leave for Judicial Review of that decision has been granted by the High Court. A hearing date has yet to be confirmed. Construction tenders for the Ritz Building Enterprise Development element of the project have been returned higher than the funding available. DRCDG have confirmed that they are not in a position to provide an uplift and alternative options are being explored in consultation with the successful tenderer.

•

Letterkenny 2040 – Reimagined Market Square: This project consists of the demolition and removal of the existing public realm and construction of a new public realm environment. DHLGH confirmed a funding uplift for this project and construction started in August 2026.

•

Creeslough Community Regeneration Project: This project consists of the construction of a new community hub building, a multi-purpose community field and a community garden and landscaped public realm. The detailed design process has been completed. DRCDG have considered the approval request to commence the construction tender process, which included a significant funding uplift, and have confirmed that they are not in a position to provide an uplift. Alternative options for delivery of the project are being explored in consultation with the design team.

•

Ramelton Re-imagined/Historic Town Centre: This project consists of the regeneration of public areas throughout the town centre including provision of civic meeting places, green spaces, surface renewal and pedestrian priority improvements. Construction works are underway and are due for completion by Q1 2027.

•

Repowering Buncrana: The overall objective of the project is to regenerate and reconnect the costal edge and historic town centre together with the repurposing and extension of the old garda barracks building to create bespoke office accommodation. Detailed design has been completed for the old garda barracks and a funding application was submitted to the DRCDG at the end of July under the latest RRDF funding call. Design continues on the remainder of the project. An application for a Maritime Area Consent (MAC) was submitted to the Marine Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) in May 2026. It is expected that a decision on the MAC application will take approx. 1 year. This will then be followed with an application to An Coimisiún Pleanála which is also expected to take a minimum of 1 year.

•

Letterkenny 2040 - Revival of the Courthouse The development proposes the adaptive reuse and extension of the vacant Letterkenny Courthouse to deliver a flexible, multi-use civic, tourism, and cultural facility. The detailed design and tender documentation will be completed by end September 2026 and submitted to NWRA for approval to commence the construction tender process.

•

County House Refurbishment This project proposes refurbishment of the County House complex in Lifford and will also provide for an enlarged council chamber and ancillary facilities. Tender documents for procurement of a design consultant to develop the scope of the project are currently being developed.

•

Lifford Staff Buildings This project proposes a new building to be constructed on the Lifford campus to provide alternative accommodation for staff who are currently in leased buildings in Lifford. A design consultant was appointed in August and work on the design has commenced.

•

4.3.2

Finner Fire Station This project proposes construction of a new three bay fire station at Finner to serve the Bundoran and Ballyshannon areas. Tenders for a design consultant have been returned and are currently being assessed.

Community Capital Unit Projects:

The CCU is responsible for delivering a wide range of projects under various funding programmes including; -

DRCDG (ORIS, CLÁR, CRF and T&V) Failte Ireland Projects (Malin Head, Downings, Bundoran, Sliabh Liag) PEACE PLUS Projects (Drumboe Park, Newtowncunningham, Glencar, Ballyshannon, Fintown Playpark, Loughanure Playpark) Playgrounds (Maintenance and new projects).

Some of the larger projects being delivered by the CCU are: •

Na Dúnaibh PFG2 (Downings) This project consists of a new Facility Centre for Water Sports Activities including enhanced access to Downings Blue Flag Beach for pedestrians and vehicles. It comprises a purpose-built single-storey facility with accessible changing rooms, showers, a ‘Changing Places’ room, public conveniences and car parking. A Section 177AE application was submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála on 11th December 2025 and their decision is currently awaited.

•

Tullan Strand PFG2, Bundoran This project consists of a new Facility Centre for Water Sports Activities including an accessible pathway to Tullan Strand Beach, Bundoran. It comprises a purpose-built single-storey facility with accessible changing rooms, showers, a ‘Changing Places’ room, public conveniences and car and bus parking. A Section 177AE application and CPO were submitted to ACP at the end of May 2026. A number of submissions and objections have been submitted and ACP may convene an oral hearing on the applications.

•

Sliabh Liag The proposed development includes the renewal of the viewing platform, widening of the existing path from the car park to the viewing platform and reconfiguration of the existing parking facilities. The Part 8 planning process was concluded on 15th April 2026. A brief to procure the necessary professional services to undertake the detailed design of the viewing platform and other elements of the project is being finalised and will be published on the etenders website during September 2026. Construction will follow the detailed design and tendering stages.

•

Malin Head The Malin Head project, which remains a key strategic tourism and regional development initiative for the Inishowen Peninsula, seeks to enhance visitor facilities and infrastructure at Malin Head, while protecting the area’s unique environmental and heritage assets.

In view of the difficulties accessing privately owned lands for surveys a review of the project has taken place. Funding is uncertain at present and engagement will be had with the Inishowen MD Members in the coming months to consider a way forward. •

Drumboe Park (PEACEPLUS) This project comprises Phase 1 of the overall development of Drumboe Community Park on Drumboe Avenue in Stranorlar. A contractor has been appointed and construction will commence in September 2026.

•

Newtowncunningham (PEACEPLUS) The project in Newtowncunningham will see the development of a playpark in the village. A contractor has been appointed and construction will commence in October 2026.

•

Glencar (PEACEPLUS) This project consists of the development of an ‘Outdoor Community Recreation Facility’ at Glencar Scotch in Letterkenny on the old Glencar Reservoir site which is in the ownership of the Council. The proposed development, in partnership with Letterkenny CDP, comprises a multi sport playing pitch and hub as well as community garden and allotments for cross community enjoyment, supporting local schools, colleges, businesses and the local community. Discussions to acquire some additional land to provide an enhanced facility are underway. The Part 8 planning process will commence when these discussions are closed out.

•

Ballyshannon (PEACEPLUS) The proposed development at the Mall Quay, Boat Yard in Ballyshannon provides for the creation of a multi-purpose outdoor recreational/exhibition area contained within the four walls of the site and includes a viewing platform overlooking the River Erne estuary, an area for local artists, musicians, and craft makers to showcase their handcrafted wares and performances under a proposed canopy and the provision of inclusive toilets. Donegal County Council technical staff completed a topographical survey of the site and a number of meetings have been held with the local community group to finalise the scope of the project. A brief is currently being prepared to procure the necessary professional services in Q3/Q4 of 2026 to deliver the project through planning and thereafter to tender, construction and handover.

•

Baile na Finne (Fintown) Playpark (PEACEPLUS) The proposed development at Baile na Finne consists of the development of a playpark on a site adjacent to the local national school in the village. Technical staff from the Council have completed a topographical survey of the site and held an initial meeting with the local community group on the site. The lease of the site to the Council is currently being progressed and an environmental assessment of the site in advance of commencement of the Part 8 planning process will be undertaken in September 2026.

•

Loch an Iúir (Loughanure) Playpark (PEACEPLUS) This project at Loch an Iúir consists of the development of a playpark on a site just off the local road leading to Anagaire, on the outskirts of the village.

Technical staff from the Council have completed a topographical survey of the site and held an initial meeting with the local community group on the site. The lease/transfer of the site to the Council is currently being progressed and an environmental assessment of the site in advance of commencement of the Part 8 planning process will be undertaken in September 2026. •

Muckish Railway Walk (ORIS 2020 & 2023) The project comprises the third phase of the enhancement of the Muckish Railway Walk following on from the successful completion of Phase 1 (2km) and Phase 2 (1km). The project includes the upgrade of a further 3.5km section of the former Burtonport to Letterkenny railway line, adjacent to Muckish Mountain, between Creeslough and Falcarragh. Construction commenced in August 2026.

•

Carraig Airt go dtí Na Dúnaibh (Carrigart to Downings) Walkway (ORIS 2022 - Phase 1 & Phase 2 -2024/2025) Phase 1 of this project is substantially complete. Technical staff from the Council have completed a topographical survey of the land required to deliver Phase 2 of the project towards Carraig Airt. Engagement with landowners is ongoing.

5. Human Resources, Economic Development & Emergency Services 5.1

Economic Development Division

5.1.1

UNESCO Learning City Region

UNESCO Learning City Region - A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Friday 26th June at Ulster University by all partners committing to working together to further develop the North West Learning City Region. Work ongoing with ATU and UU to develop a 2027 programme of events.

5.1.2

Donegal Tech Advocates

The Donegal Tech Advocates will co-host an event with North West Cyber Ireland on 15th October in Kinnegar Brewery Letterkenny at 5.30pm.

5.1.3

Lifford Common Development

The Lifford Common Development substantially complete with 12 acres of land available for economic development purposes.

5.1.4

Donegal Craft Village

€150,000.00 has been awarded to Donegal County Council under the Artists Workspace Scheme to carry out repair and upgrade works on the two vacant units. Redesign of signage in the craft village has been finalised and quotes are now being sought for installation.

5.1.5

Dispora

Two events were held in London in September to promote opportunities and projects ongoing in Donegal. The EDU team attended the London Irish Vintage Day and successfully gained over 130 new subscribers to our newsletter. We also hosted an event in the London Irish Centre with over 250 attendees Showcasing Donegal Employment opportunities and enticing members of the London Irish Community to return or relocate to Donegal.

Work continues in preparation for the Tip O'Neill Irish Diaspora awards 2026 where the county will acknowledge Brenda "Tiny" Vaughan and Kate Barton for excellence in their chosen fields. The event will be held at the Inishowen Gateway Buncrana on the 25ht of September.

5.1.6

Tourism Unit - Ireland West Airport, Knock Donegal Promotion (Strengthening Regional Connectivity & Inbound Tourism for Donegal)

The Tourism Unit team were delighted to collaborate with Ireland West Airport Knock, on Tuesday 8th September where a Donegal promotion took place in the airport focusing on strategic opportunities to showcase County Donegal across key European markets, including the UK, Spain, Italy, and Germany. Direct air access via Ireland West Airport serves as a vital gateway for inbound international visitors, providing seamless connectivity to the North West and the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. Collaborations like this are essential to driving sustainable regional tourism growth, extending visitor dwell time, and showcasing our world- class hospitality, heritage, and outdoor experiences to overseas travellers.

5.1.7

Shared Island Tourism Workshop

Donegal Tourism CLG and Donegal County Council were delighted to attend the Shared Island workshop in Derry on 9th September. The first-ever Shared Island Tourism Brand cross-border collaborative event was hosted by Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, brought together the best of our regional tourism sector including around 50 overseas tour operators from eight key tourism markets and 110 tourism businesses from along the two iconic routes, Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way. The workshop was the first initiative of its kind under the Shared Island framework, which aims to sustainably grow overseas visitor numbers by highlighting the connectivity between the two routes, encouraging visitors to stay longer, and increasing the economic benefits of tourism. More than 1,500 commercial meetings took place during the workshop, with tourism businesses including premium hotels, food experiences, whiskey distilleries, activity providers, and heritage attractions connecting with overseas tour operators to negotiate and develop business opportunities for 2027 and beyond.

5.1.8

Blue Economy Working Group

Build the Blue Economy: Aquatech and Engineering Breakfast Workshop held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Letterkenny on 9 September.

Donegal County Council under the auspices pf the Blue Economy Working Group hosted the Build the Blue Economy: Aquatech and Engineering Breakfast Workshop at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Letterkenny, highlighting Donegal and the North West's strong potential to grow as a leading hub for Aquatech, marine engineering and Blue Economy innovation. The event brought together industry representatives, stakeholders, and expert speakers to explore opportunities for collaboration, export growth, skills development, and sustainable marine enterprise. Discussions emphasised Donegal's maritime heritage, engineering expertise, international market connections, and the value of continued partnership between industry, education, and government in supporting future Blue Economy development.

5.1.9

Blue Economy Steering Group

Learning Journey to Iceland, 21–25 September

A delegation from the Blue Bioeconomy Steering Group, together with industry partners, will attend a study visit and networking opportunity hosted by the Icelandic Ocean Cluster. The visit will bring together sister ocean clusters from around the world in Iceland for the 100% Fish for Profit Conference.

5.1.10 # Love Donegal Day 17 September

Donegal County Council officially launched the Love Donegal 2026 campaign at Crolly Distillery on 16 September in advance of Love Donegal Day, which takes place on 17 September 2026. The campaign celebrates Donegal's people,

communities, culture, creativity, heritage, and diaspora, and encourages those at home and abroad to share their connection to the county through stories, photographs, videos, and messages using #LoveDonegalDay. The launch event brought together elected members, community representatives, stakeholders, and media, and showcased local food, hospitality, music, and storytelling. Crolly Distillery provided an appropriate setting, reflecting the county's heritage, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Love Donegal campaign continues to grow in reach and impact, with last year's campaign reaching 109 million people worldwide, further strengthening Donegal's profile and connection with its global diaspora.

5.1.11 SNVP – Smart Villages Network Project Work is ongoing on finalising the strategy to deliver one-to-one and group business mentoring in digital themes, in partnership with the 6 Digital Hubs in Donegal and the other project partners.

5.1.12 Donegal 2040 Island House, Killybegs Island House is a part of the wider Killybegs regeneration project and will provide additional state of the art office and enterprise space within the town centre. An Expressions of Interest process for the new office accommodation at Island House closed on September 1st. An evaluation panel will now assess submissions to determine suitability. Pending the outcome of the panel lease discussions may then progress with potential tenants.

Burtonport Enterprise Centre The project forms part of the wider Burtonport and Arranmore Harbour regeneration initiative. Construction of the new Burtonport Enterprise Centre is nearing completion, with substantive works anticipated to be completed by the end of October 2026. Preparations are underway for the leasing of the building, including a new Expression of Interest process to identify suitable occupiers. The facility will provide new enterprise accommodation and support economic activity in the Burtonport area.

TechIreland National AI Challenge September 14th

ALPHA Innovation was one of 14 Hubs across Ireland that hosted their AI Challenge Regional Showcase on 14th September. A record 11 teams took part in the event, who had 2 weeks to form teams and build an AI project with a working demo. The teams pitched their AI projects to our judging panel comprising of Joe Dunleavy – Endava, Isobel Cunningham – ATU, and Darragh McDonagh – DCC. TechIreland have selected 17 teams for the final on 24th September, and ALPHA are delighted to have 2 teams selected as finalists.

Disrupt By the Sea 24th September ALPHA Innovation's annual 'shark tank' event, Disrupt by the Sea, is back for another year on 24th September at The Blue Goat, Ramelton. The number of finalists is increased to 6 this year, which includes 2 Donegal businesses, who will each pitch on the day to win the opportunity to negotiate a $100,000 investment. The judges this year are Mark Baiada, Marty Loughlin, Joan O'Shea & John Cummins.

5.2 Local Enterprise Office Local Enterprise Office Donegal is embedded within the Local Authority and mandated to deliver enterprise development and business support functions on behalf of Enterprise Ireland and local government. Its core mission is to enable entrepreneurship, provide expert advice, deliver enterprise supports, and foster local economic development. For 2026, Local Enterprise Office Donegal remains focused on strengthening business resilience and supporting sustainable growth throughout the county. Key priorities include supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, export development, and helping businesses to navigate the digital and green transition.

5.2.1

Programme and Support Activity Highlights

Since the start of 2026, Local Enterprise Office Donegal has delivered a broad range of supports across financial assistance, training and advisory services, reflecting strong and sustained activity throughout the year to date. Against a target of 33, the office recorded 22 approvals under Financial Support Packages, achieving 67% of target, with 41 job commitments secured against a job commitment target of 84, putting jobs achieved at 48.81% by end of Q3. Within start-up activity, six feasibility studies have been approved, supporting six jobs, while the Priming Grant scheme has approved six applications, supporting a further eleven jobs. On the established business side, Business Expansion has recorded eight approvals supporting 24 jobs, and two Market Explorer Grants have been approved. Productivity Measures overall stand at 82% of target, with 86 approvals against a target of 105. Within this, Lean for Business is at 87% (13 of 15), Green for Business at 81% (22 of 27), Energy Efficiency Grants have exceeded target at 117% (21 against 18), Digital for Business is at 70% (19 of 27), and the Grow Digital Voucher stands at 61% (11 of 18). Capability Development remains a strong area of delivery. Training has surpassed target at 109%, with 977 participants against a target of 900, Start Your Own

Business is at 129% (116 against a target of 90), and the Mentor Development Programme (short and long) is at 133% (120 against a target of 90). Animation, networking and awareness activity stands at 119%, with 857 against a target of 720. Mentoring has reached 88% of target, with 237 approvals granted against a target of 270. Overall, the picture to date is one of strong performance across the year, with capability development and productivity measures both tracking well ahead in key areas, including Training, Start Your Own Business, the Mentor Development Programme and Energy Efficiency Grants.

5.2.2

Business Support Clinics and AI for Business Workshop

Local Enterprise Office Donegal continued to deliver its Business Supports’ Clinics on a weekly basis throughout the summer, giving both in-person and online attendees an overview of the supports and services available to small businesses in Donegal and explaining the Grant Aid process and criteria, with one-to-one advice offered on specific queries. Grant Aid is available to micro-enterprises that meet national criteria, and the clinics gave prospective and existing business owners the opportunity to assess their eligibility and understand the application process. Alongside this, LEO Donegal ran an online workshop, AI for Business: Practical Applications for SMEs, aimed at busy business owners and managers with no tech background required. The fully-booked session cut through the jargon around artificial intelligence and demonstrated practical tools attendees could put to use straight away, with a particular focus on using AI as an everyday assistant to save time on day-to-day tasks.

5.2.3

Donegal Enterprise Awards 2026 – Applications Now Open

Applications for the Donegal Enterprise Awards 2026 are now open, with seven categories making up a countywide celebration of small business success. The closing date for applications is Thursday 1st October at 5pm. Businesses can check their eligibility and apply through the Local Enterprise Office Donegal website.

5.2.4

National Women’s Enterprise Day 2026

Local Enterprise Office Donegal will host its National Women's Enterprise Day event in Letterkenny this year, taking place at the Clanree Hotel on Thursday 15th October from 6.30pm to 9.30pm. Part of Ireland's largest female enterprise initiative, the evening is designed and led by women and celebrates and encourages female entrepreneurship across the country. This year’s line-up includes Oatco Superfuel founder Laura Murphy, (who secured investment on Dragons' Den), as keynote speaker, and Mirenda Rosenberg as MC, alongside a panel featuring Donegal-based Ciara McGlynn of Niche Specialist Staffing Partners and Karoline Sweeney of Castle Grove Country House and Letterkenny Chamber.

5.2.5

Donegal Engineering Network Restarting

The Donegal Engineering Network is restarting this month, and Local Enterprise Office Donegal is inviting engineering businesses across the county to get involved. The network gives members access to information on supports, funding and other opportunities available through the office, the chance to connect with other engineering businesses and build peer relationships, practical expert-led workshops, insight through industry visits and shared experience, and a forum to share knowledge and solutions to common challenges.

5.3

Emergency Services

5.3.1

Operations

(i)

Incident Activity The number of incidents in the County and the fire brigade mobilisation activity for July and August of 2026 are detailed in Table 1 below.

Table 1 - Operational Data for July and August of 2026

5.3.2

Training

Members of the Service attended the following out of County training courses during July and August of 2026:  1 no. new member of the service attended a 10-day QQI Using Breathing Apparatus (Initial Wearer) training course at the Fire Service Learning & Development Centre, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.  10 no. new members of the service attended a 5-day QQI Using Breathing Apparatus (Compartment Fire Behaviour) training course at Tubbercurry Fire Station, Co. Sligo. 4 No. Donegal County Council Fire Service instructors provided training.  1 no. new member of the service attended a 5-day QQI Using Breathing Apparatus (Compartment Fire Behaviour) training course at Ballinrobe Fire Station, Co. Mayo. Members of the Service attended the following in County training courses during July and August 2026:  23 No. members of the service attended 2 No. Managing Fire Service Incidents – Module 1 Courses at Falcarragh Fire Station. 4 No. Donegal County Council Fire Service Instructors provided training on these courses.

5.3.3

Fire Prevention

Statutory Fire Safety Table 2 below shows the number of valid Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) applications received in conjunction with the number of applications granted for each of the two-month periods from January to December 2026. Valid Fire Safety Certificates 2026

Jan/ Feb

March/ April

May/ June

July/ August

Received

Decisions made

Sept/ Oct

Nov/ Dec

Table 2 - Summary of FSC’s received and decisions made.

At the end of August 2026, 36 FSC applications were to be assessed, while 41 FSC applications were waiting for further information from the applicants' agent.

Table 3 below sets out the type and frequency of other activities that the Fire Prevention Section was involved in during July and August of 2026. July and August 2026 Fire Prevention Activity

Number

Applications for Dangerous Substance Licences received

Form of notice received under the Explosives Act, 1875

Inspections and Auditing carried out (Fire Services Act 1981 & 2003, Annual Licensing, DSA 1972, Explosive Stores, Pyrotechnics, BCA 1992 & 2007)

Fire Safety Complaints received

Fire Safety Complaints dealt with

Fire Safety Awareness presentations made

163

Table 3 – Fire Prevention Activity Data (Excludes FSC’s) 1

For this two-month period as part of its Community Fire Safety programme, Donegal Fire Service facilitated 18 no. Fire safety presentations whilst 145 No. home fire safety visits were also undertaken. 140 of the home fire safety visits were completed on Arranmore Island as part of the Community Fire Safety programme, which will be extended to all island communities.

5.3.4

Emergency Management

Severe Weather

There were 5 weather warnings issued by the Met Éireann Weather Warning Alerting Service for Donegal between the 1st of July 2026 and the 31st of August 2026. These warnings varied between rainfall, wind, thunderstorms, hailstones • • •

Status Yellow – 4 No. warnings issued. Status Orange – 1 No. warning issued Status Red – None.

Yellow Warning 15th, 16th and 17th July A yellow high temperature warning was issued from 12:00 hours Wednesday 15/07/2026 until 06:30hrs Friday 17/07/2026. Temperatures were forecast to exceed 27 degrees. Temperatures ranged from 24 to 26 degrees Yellow Warning 4th August 2026 A yellow thunderstorm warning was issued from 09:53hrs Tuesday 04/08/2026 to 11:00hrs 04/08/2026. The conditions were mild and breezy, with scattered rain showers.

Yellow Warning 5th August 2026 A yellow rain and wind warning was issued from 02:00hrs Wednesday 05/08/2026 to 14:00hrs 05/08/2026. The conditions were mild and breezy, with scattered showers. Yellow Warning 11th September 2026 A yellow rain warning was issued from 21:00hrs Friday 11/09/2026 to 09:00hrs 12/09/2026. No significant events occurred. Orange Warning 12th September 2026 An Orange rain/thunderstorm warning was issued from 01:00hrs Saturday 12/09/2026 to 07:00hrs 12/09/2026. Rain occurred throughout the period but didn’t cause any damage

6. Roads & Transportation R s

6.1 National Roads Office 6.1.1 TEN-T Priority Route Improvement Project The TEN-T Priority Route Improvement Project Donegal was published in national and local newspapers on the 14th May 2026. The period for submissions has closed and approximately 200 submissions were made. These are distributed / classified under two categories of CPO and EIAR or land and property issues and environmental issues. The date for DCC to respond to submission is set as the 23rd of October. It is a matter for An Coimisiúm Pleanála if an Oral hearing is required prior to making their decision on the applications. Once DCC receives approval from An Coimisiún Pleanála, it will proceed with the project at the earliest possible date subject to funding, approvals and various procurement processes. Donegal County Council has sought that the project is designated as ‘Critical Infrastructure’ by Government and the Council has written directly to the Department for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation in this regard. Transport Infrastructure Ireland also support this designation.

6.1.2

Future National Road Improvement ‘Pipeline’ Projects

Given the length of time to progress most major road projects from inception to construction a pipeline of new transport projects is essential. This would ensure that remaining national route deficiencies are addressed and that the connectivity of the county on a local, regional and national are addressed. Such plans need to be enshrined in local, regional and national policy primarily in the county Development Plan, the NWRA Regional Social and Economic Strategy and within the National Development Plans going forward. An initial list of potential Pipeline Projects within the County are outlined in the map below and they would need to take account of other transport related interventions including those envisaged under the All -Island Rail Strategic Rail Review. In order for the Council to best achieve the advancement of these pipeline projects it will be important that these are prioritised on a needs basis and satisfy Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland criteria. It is proposed that an assessment of these pipeline projects is undertaken in order to propose a priority for discussion with Elected Members.

6.2

Roads Areas

6.2.1 Road Improvement and Maintenance Programmes Work programme finalised for the completion of the last of the 2026 Restoration Improvement and Restoration Maintenance schemes. There were no secondary allocations this year. In the course of the Restoration Improvement programme, approximately 140 bitmac contracts have been awarded to surfacing contractors. Works have commenced on the ground on the Local Improvements Schemes, Community Involvement Schemes and various Capital works. There was no tranch 2 allocation of LIS funding in 2026.

6.2.2

TII Emergency Pavement Scheme

DCC have appointed a contractor for the placement of the numerous ‘patches’ that the TII have agreed to fund under the Emergency Pavement Schemes programme on the N13 and N15 to the value of €500k. Works have commenced on site in relation to this programme.

6.2.3

Winter Maintenance

Preparation arrangements are being made for the implementation of the 2026-27 Winter Maintenance gritting season, which this year, runs from the Monday 12th October 2026 to end of April 2027.

6.3

Central Technical Services

6.3.1

Bus Stop Enhancement Programme (BSEP) – Progress Update

A Contractor was appointed Tranche 1 in July 2026 and work has started. This tranche includes the following locations: •

Anagaire: 2 x Shelter stops

•

Castlefin: 1 x Pole-only stop

•

Convoy: 1 x Shelter stop

•

An Dúchoraidh: 2 x Pole-only stops

•

Newtowncunningham: 1 x Shelter stop

•

Clonmany: 1 x Pole-only stop

•

Bundoran: 5 x Sites (2 Pole-only stops, 3 Shelter stops)

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has established a nationwide Priority List for Bus Stop Enhancements to complement the Connecting Ireland programme. DCC has reviewed NTA’s priorities and collaborated them in recent months to confirm locations for Tranches 2 and 3. Upgrades on National Roads require technical engagement with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). Because these locations involve longer processing times, a number of them have been allocated to Tranche 3. Draft Tranche 2 and Tranche 3 locations are included below. •

Market Square Buncrana (Shelter stop)

•

Dún Lúiche, Muine Beag (2 x Shelter stops: WB & EB)

•

Cranford (2 x Shelter stops: SB & NB)

•

Moville (2 x Shelter stops: SB & NB)

•

Leitir Mhic an Bhaird (2 x Shelter stops: NB & SB)

•

Creeslough (2 x Shelter stops: NB & SB)

•

Dunfanaghy (1 x Shelter stop: SB)

•

Killygordon (1 x Shelter stop: EB)

•

Mountcharles (2 x Pole-only stops)

•

Carrig Airt (1 x Pole-only stop)

•

An Clochán (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Ballyliffin (2 x Shelter stops: NB & SB)

•

Dungloe (1 x Pole-only stop)

•

Killybegs (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Gleann Cholm Cille (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Stranorlar (1 x Pole-only stop: EB)

•

Kilmacrennan (2 x Shelter stops: SB & NB)

•

Bruckless (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Dunkineely (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Drumkeen (1 x Shelter stop: NB)

•

Killygordon (1 x Pole-only stop: WB)

•

An Fál Carrach (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Doira Beag (1 x Shelter stop)

•

An Bun Beag (1 x Shelter stop)

•

Lunniagh (1 x Shelter stop)

_______________________________________ John G. McLaughlin Chief Executive