Údarás na Gaeltachta is looking to build on its recently-published 2018 growth figures with an innovation-based approach for 2019, after a year that saw the strongest job creation figures in 10 years, along with the creation of Ireland’s most ambitious digital hub network, gTeic, and an unprecedented community-based language planning initiative.
The approach is very much based on developing sustainable, local resources as a source of employment, and focusing specifically on improving and strengthening quality of life in the Gaeltacht by strengthening the Irish language there.
But with the uncertainty around Brexit, along with other international trading uncertainties, 2019 is a pivotal year for Gaeltacht-based companies and communities.
With Údarás na Gaeltachta taking on these challenges head-on, the organisation has recently announced a key role in Gaeltacht development, Bainisteoir Réigiúin na Iarthair, responsible for implementing actions aimed at strengthening the Gaeltacht and the Irish language in the west, with a key opportunity to have a direct and positive impact on the future of the Gaeltacht.
The Bainisteoir an Iarthair position is a senior role within the organisation, with the appointed person responsible for areas such as community and regional development, arts and culture projects, along with areas of enterprise and innovation.
Among the projects Údarás na Gaeltachta will be specifically undertaking and developing further in 2019 will be the gTeic digital hub network, the language planning process, Gaeltacht tourism projects, developing Páirc na Mara as a world-class marine and aquaculture project, along with further strengthening and promoting the recently-launched Gaeltacht brand.
“It is crucial for the Gaeltacht’s sustainable future that enterprise and language development are promoted simultaneously and to that end that appropriate resources are made available,” said Údarás na Gaeltachta Chief Executive, Mícheál Ó hÉanaigh. “This in itself is a considerable challenge but we remain optimistic in light of the progress made in recent years.”
With the to-be-appointed Bainisteoir Réigiúin a key part of that work, it is expected that the newly-appointed person will provide strong leadership in the region while implementing Údarás na Gaeltacht’s strategic aims.
Further information on the role is available at https://www.sigmarrecruitment.com/clients/udaras-na-gaeltachta and applications will be accepted until March 8.
