Winner: Fanad, Co Donegal

Gaeltacht Beo Fhánada demonstrates an infectious enthusiasm and passion for its area which is isolated and rural in NW Donegal. Its main objective is to preserve the Irish language, develop community facilities and services, and develop tourism and employment in the area. The Fanad football club was the best in the county up until a year ago but has unfortunately lost most of the team to emigration.

The Wild Atlantic Way has helped put Fanad on the map and the committee are supporting this initiative strongly. The Phase 1 plan for the lighthouse is completed, car parks extended, and a viewing platform erected. There will be state of the art hostelling accommodation provided with a café and craft shop on site. Placenames have been collected and erected in local stone. The day Centre caters for all community activities. There is a Youth Club, Naíonra and marching band and loads of activities happening.

Judges’ Citation
The judges found this place in northwest Donegal and its people an absolute pleasure to visit as they were brought on a community journey of over 50 years. Fanad is a community always looking to the future while building on the attractiveness of its environment and location. Gaeltacht Beo Fhánada demonstrated an infectious enthusiasm and passion for their area. The judges were also impressed with the manner in which the younger people in the community readily accepted they had a responsibility to continue the work of previous generations and take on the leadership mantle. The future is in good hands.