Three Mayo schools added to Safe Routes to School Programme
Three schools in Mayo have been selected for funding under Round 4 of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme, Minister of State Alan Dillon has announced. This national initiative aims to make school journeys safer, healthier, and more sustainable for children and families.
The schools selected are Castlebar Educate Together National School, Castlebar Primary School Junior Campus, and Castlebar Primary School Senior Campus.
Minister Dillon said, “I am delighted that these three national schools in Mayo have today been selected for funding through Round 4 of the Safe Routes to School Programme. This is a fantastic programme that will see measures implemented to make it safer and easier for students to walk and cycle to school. With over €50 million invested nationally to date, we are ensuring safer journeys in Mayo.”
The improvements will include: School zone features such as pencil-shaped bollards and colourful road markings; upgraded footpaths and pedestrian crossings to slow traffic and improve safety; measures that encourage walking and cycling as real alternatives to car travel.
Minister Dillon added, “This is a win for students, parents, and the wider community. “Safer routes mean healthier children, reduced congestion, and lower emissions. We want walking and cycling to become the default choice for school journeys, and this programme is helping to make that possible.”
He concluded, “At its core, Safe Routes to School is about creating safer environments for our children and building a culture of sustainable travel that will benefit Mayo for generations to come. These investments show that government is delivering real, tangible improvements for local communities.”
The Safe Routes to School Programme is funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA) and coordinated by An Taisce’s Education and Community Action Team. Since its launch, the programme has delivered tangible improvements in every county, working closely with schools, parents, and local authorities to ensure solutions meet local needs.