Leitrim schools included in latest round of Safe Routes to School Programme

Two additional Leitrim schools have been added to round four of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme. 

The SRTS incorporates safety measures that will make walking, wheeling and cycling safer and easier for children.

The announcement was made by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer, who confirmed that 105 additional schools have been added to the SRTS programme.

The Leitrim schools included are St Patrick’s National School in Drumshanbo and Carrigallen National School.

These schools have been added to round four, which also includes schools located on higher-speed rural roads. 

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The 12 schools in this category will benefit from tailored measures such as prominent signage and road markings to alert motorists and encourage lower speeds.

Meanwhile, Minister of State Frank Feighan TD has welcomed the selection of St Patrick’s NS, Drumshanbo and Carrigallen NS under the scheme.

“These improvements include school zone features such as pencil shaped bollards, colourful road markings, upgraded footpaths, and enhanced pedestrian crossings, designed to slow traffic and make walking and cycling safer for students,” he said.

“The programme aims include improving safety and public health while reducing car congestion and supporting climate goals,” added Deputy Feighan.

Since its launch in 2021, the SRTS programme has grown significantly, with 526 schools now actively incorporated into the programme and around €50 million invested in projects to date across Ireland.

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The SRTS programme is funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).