+353 (0) 1 685 3029  /  +353 (0) 71 930 0942

POSTED 30.5.2022

ATU boost for Ireland’s West and North West

StoryLab was proud to support the Atlantic Technological University with content and PR activity for its recent launch – a news event that captured headlines and generated interest from journalists and producers across Ireland and beyond.

April 1 was a landmark day for the new university which created university campuses in counties Donegal, Sligo, Galway and Mayo for the first time while giving Galway city a second university option.

ATU will also offer students in surrounding counties the option of a TU education. It will serve 21,000 students and be one of the largest multi-campus universities in Ireland. The university will be supported by 2,250 staff, delivering practice-oriented study and research.

All eyes were on ATU Sligo for the official launch on April 4 which was carried out by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris.

Speaking at ATU Sligo in an event live-streamed to campuses in Galway, Mayo and Donegal, Minister Harris told a large gathering of students, staff and dignitaries — including ATU President Dr. Orla Flynn and ATU Chair Maura McNally — that the new Technological University would play a pivotal role in the strategic regional development of the west and north West.

Ireland’s newest university also revealed its new brand as part of the launch.  The word ‘Atlantic” conveys power, strength, inspiration, creation, vast horizons – distinctive geography, rich history and shared heritage.

Media coverage of ATU’s launch was extensive and in advance of the event, the country’s best-selling newspaper the Sunday Independent carried an interview with president Dr. Orla Flynn.

Stories about ATU also appeared in title such as the Irish Independent, Mayo News, Connacht Telegraph, Sligo Champion, Donegal Democrat, Donegal Daily and on radio stations Galway Bay fm, Oceanfm, Mid West Radio and Highland Radio.

Excitement on launch day was captured by TV crews; RTE News attended and correspondent Eileen Magnier’s report was carried on the main Six One News. A broadcast team was also on hand from Nuacht TG4 with a report from Maolra Mac Donnchadha. The launch of ATU was also covered by BBC News.

If you need help telling your story, give us a call on 01 685 3029