A popular Irish speaking summer college in Gweedore is in jeopardy for the coming season, it has been confirmed. A stand off was continuing yesterday (Thursday) between angry Mná Tí and the Department of Education after the highly controversial decision not to grant recognition and funding for Coláiste an Phiarsaigh .

The Department of Education's decision not to grant recognition for courses at Coláiste an Phiarsaigh at Bunnaniver, Gweedore has infuriated those involved and yesterday top level political talks were continuing in an effort to reverse that decision.

The Coláiste is reported to be worth around ¤2 million annually to the local economy.

The Department said the decision arose because of the college authorities failure to comply with criteria attached to the granting of recognition in 2006. The Department has declined to make any further comment on the matter. Gardai have confirmed that no member of staff or anyone connected with the college was under investigation following an alleged incident in the area several years ago.

Around 30 Mná Ti take students in for courses at the college. Upwards on 1,000 students attended three

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