Crowds of people gathered in Áras Mhic Amhlaigh on Saturday for the launch of the Barna – Knocknacarra Irish language plan. Both young and old were present for the speeches and the official launch, and a range of events and workshops took place afterwards which were suitable for every age group.
The Mayor of Galway, Eddie Hoare, began the talks by describing the importance of language planning and the positive impact he has seen so far in the area since the language plan was implemented, just under a year ago.
Aoife Ní Chonghaile, the Irish Language Planning Officer for Gaeilge ABC, spoke a little about the year she has spent in the job and the support shown by the schools, the businesses and the community since she started the job. She also spoke about the huge demand for the Irish language classes and for all the other various events organized to date.
Tomás Ó Síocháin, Chief Executive of Údarás na Gaeltachta praised the work that Gaeilge ABC have done until now, and the support that the Language Planning department in Údarás na Gaeltachta give both the committee and the Irish Language Planning Officer.
Then, Aodhán Mac Cormaic, the director of Roinn na Gaeltachta officially launched the plan.
After the official launch, the group of spectators have the opportunity to enjoy all the activities that had been organized.
A large crowd gathered outside Áras Mhic Amhlaigh to watch Stephen McGinley’s Irish circus show, and the rhythmic beats from Drumadore’s workshop provided the soundtrack for the day.
In addition to these thrilling performances, attendees had the opportunity to indulge in a host of other activities, including face painting, dancing, storytelling, and crafting.
The music was the highlight of the day, with a few tunes played by Ceoltóirí Choláiste na Coiribe, by Katie Ní Chonghaile and Seán Sheridan Lally, and a few melodious songs from Cór Chois Fharraige that enhanced the festive spirit of the day.
From the moment the gates opened, there was an exciting and lively atmosphere in the place and Irish could be heard being spoken by young and old.
“We are delighted with the crowd that came, and with the support of the community for the event”, said Sinéad Ní Ghuidhir, Director of Gaeilge ABC. “It shows that the public is interested in the language, and that they want opportunities to speak it. That’s what Gaeilge ABC is about, creating such opportunities and providing supports to maximize the number of daily speakers in the area.”
Gaeilge ABC would like to thank everyone who supported the occasion, the committees and the community that came and took part in it, and we hope to build on the success of this event and plan much more in the future.
