THE WEST Donegal summer language college that was forced to shut down over a week ago because of a swine flu outbreak reopened on Saturday evening, with nearly all students returning.
An outbreak of swine flu at Coláiste Mhuire, Loughanure, forced authorities to shut the college on Saturday, August 8th, following advice from the HSE, and all 293 students had to abandon the three-week Irish language courses and return to their Northern Ireland homes.
A total of 11 students tested positive for swine flu, while 140 more examined at a special clinic in the college by two doctors showed symptoms and were treated with Tamiflu before being sent home.
It was initially feared that very few students would return after having their course cancelled.
On Saturday evening, however, returning students were greeted by staff and locals people.
During the week, two more Gaeltacht colleges in Donegal had to close down following swine flu outbreaks.
All 306 students at nearby Coláiste Bhríde, Rann na Feirste, went home on Thursday, while 15 miles away, the Gael Linn college at Machaire Rabhartaigh sent its 160 students home on Friday. These colleges will not reopen.