Nineteen Canadian and seven American Irish language learners were presented with awards at Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge in An Cheathrú Rua in the Galway Gaeltacht recently.
Awards were also presented to six Irish language instructors selected by the Ireland Canada University Foundation (ICUF ) to teach Irish at a range of locations across Canada for the academic year 2014-15.
These awards are the result of ongoing collaboration developed by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has developed with ICUF and the Ireland-United States [Fulbright] Commission for Educational Exchange. They reflect the deep interest in the Irish language in the United States and Canada where, every year, many Irish language learners choose to attend courses at the National University of Ireland, Galway Galway, An Cheathrú Rua and other venues. The awards are financed in partnership with universities and institutions in both Canada and the United States.
The former minister of state at the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Dinny McGinley congratulated all of the recipients and their teachers for their efforts in the promotion and preservation of the Irish language. “These exchanges provide Ireland with a valuable opportunity to showcase the culture and creativity of the Gaeltacht and help to identify future possibilities for resource development, collaboration and exchanges.”
