Mayor launches second annual Donncha MacNiallais Bursery Award

The Mayor Patricia Logue launched the second annual Donncha MacNiallais Bursary Award at Dove House Community Trust on Friday morning last when it was announced there will again be two scholarships awarded to primary and secondary pupils seeing them undertake a week-long paid trip to an Gaeltacht in the summer of ’24.

The funding will cover travel fees, clothing and spending allowance for the two successful recipients. The first is open to children in P7 that attend Irish medium schools in the city; and the second, to Year 8 students either/or in mainstream and Irish-medium secondary schools. 

Donncha Mac Nialliais, was a well-known community activitist and former manager at Dove House. He passed away suddenly just sixteen months ago.

Donncha was a renowned activist within the Irish Language community and struggle for the language’s revival, sustainability and equality. He promoted the Irish Language, used the language as a gaeilgeoir at every opportunity and assisted in establishing structures and institutions to ensure the language grew and became sustainable for generations to come.

Similarly, within the Community Sector Donncha was equally a renowned activist in the struggle for equality and challenging the social, economic, and educational inequalities that existed in some of the most marginalised communities.

Speaking at Friday’s launch, Jayne Quigg, manager, Dove House said the Trust was delighted to again be involved in carrying on the success of last year’s bursary.

"We are delighted to again be involved in the award. Donncha had a vast and positive impact on our community, especially within the organisation that is Dove House Community Trust.

"It’s important we continue to build on last year’s success and build something befitting that honours Donncha and his family and I’m sure this will ensure a tangible legacy to remember our esteemed colleague."

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Patricia Logue pictured on Friday last launching the 2nd Donncha Mac Niallais Bursary Award at Dove House Community Trust. Included from left are Colr. Conor Heaney, Eileen Allen, Chairperson, DHCT, Charlie McMenamin, DHCT, Jayne Quigg, Manager, DHCT, Peter Anderson, Mary Nelis, Karen Kyle and Declan Nelis. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)

Addressing the attendance at Friday’s event, the Mayor Patricia Logue said she was proud to play a part in the initiative in memory of Donncha MacNiallais and on behalf of his family.

"Donncha was passionate about his community and creating a better future for our young people and was a strong advocate of the Irish language.

"This initiative is therefore a fitting and tangible tribute to his honour and will allow the two successful young people to progress their Irish studies in the Gaeltacht."

In concluding, the Mayor added that she would strongly encourage all the young people who are studying Irish to submit their entry for a chance to win this generous bursary.

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Patricia Logue pictured on Friday with, from left, Karen Kyle, Donncha's partner, Mary Nelis, Donncha's mother and Jayne Quigg, Manager, DHCT.

For those interested in applying and/or further information or to request an application pack, contact Dove House Community Trust on 02871 269327 or email manager@dovehousecommunitytrust@gmail.com

Application process will open on 5th February, 2024 until 30th April 2024. The successful applicants will be notified by 30th May 2024.