Mayo TD welcomes sustainable development funding for seven Mayo schools

Keira Keogh TD has welcomed the announcement of over €850,000 in national funding for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) projects in 390 schools across Ireland. Seven Mayo schools will receive grants of €1,000–€2,500 to deliver innovative sustainability initiatives during the 2025/2026 school year.

Mayo Schools and Projects:

• Ballyvary CNS – €2,000: Sensory space and walk-in polytunnel
• Behy NS – €2,000: Renovation of school garden and outdoor classroom
• Cooneal NS – €2,500: Polytunnel for fruit and vegetables
• SN an Trian Láir – €2,500: Sustainable walkway and outdoor learning trail
• SN Cholmcille – €2,500: School garden development
• SN Dhumha Thuama – €2,000: Smart sprinkler system for greenhouse
• St Anthony’s Special School – €2,500: CPD courses and “50 Shades Greener” programme

“These projects are practical, hands-on, and rooted in the local environment,” Keogh said. “They give Mayo students the chance not just to learn about sustainability, but to lead it. From outdoor learning spaces to food-growing initiatives and teacher training, these investments will have long-term benefits for schools and communities.”

The ESD to 2030 strategy focuses on transforming learning environments, building educator capacity, and empowering students to take climate action. Nationally, funded projects include school gardens, recycling systems, rainwater harvesting, and energy education initiatives.

Keogh concluded: “This investment supports the Climate Action Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals, but most importantly, it supports our young people. Mayo schools are stepping up, and I look forward to seeing these projects come to life.”

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