Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim VEC merge

Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim VEC merge


Ciara Galvin

Mayo, Leitrim and Sligo VECs have been amalgamated into the Mayo/Leitrim/Sligo Education and Training Board, and the first meeting of the organisation took place last week at The Harlequin Hotel, Castlebar. The VECs were merged into a single body under the Education and Training Bill.
Speaking at the meeting, the board’s new CEO, Joe McDonagh, described the meeting as ‘a historic day’, and he expressed his confidence in the new structure.
“In terms of change I empathise with staff. Together in partnership we will create an excellent VEC. I see myself as the captain of this team,” stated the former GAA President.
The CEO adjourned the meeting briefly in respect of the untimely death of Leitrim VEC member Margaret O’Rourke.
Mr McDonagh also remembered murdered Castlebar brothers Jack and Tom Blaine. “We remember the tragic deaths of Jack and Tom. While they didn’t have an involvement in the VEC it would be remiss not to remember two well known people of this town,” said McDonagh.
McDonagh stated the importance of providing an ‘excellent service to learners’, adding that clients ‘need a seamless transition’.
He also stressed that all three groups will meet as ‘three equal entities’, using the three guiding principles of trust, respect and positivity.
Member of Mayo VEC Pat Kilbane echoed the CEO’s statements, also noting that the meeting was ‘a historic day’.
However, Mr Kilbane also voiced his concern at the depopulation of schools. “It behoves us to address this critical issue and I look forward to adding it as a matter for the ETB,” stated Kilbane.
CEO Joe McDonagh thanked former CEO of Mayo VEC Dr Katie Sweeney for her ‘outstanding work’ along with Sabina Munnelly. Mr McDonagh concluded saying that ‘with the spirit of partnership, no doubt we will have a successful outcome’.