Long-term impact left by the Munster GAA Irish language project
Seán Ó Coinn (Foras na Gaeilge Chief Executive), Aedín Ní Bhriain (Munster GAA Irish language Development Officer), Kieran Leddy (Munster GAA Chief Executive) and Colm Ó hArgáin (Foras na Gaeilge).
A three-year project by Munster GAA, implemented in partnership with Foras na Gaeilge with the aim of improving, developing, and promoting the use of Irish throughout the province of Munster through GAA structures and activities, came to an end in March.
During the period of the scheme, Foras na Gaeilge funded an Irish-language development officer post for Munster GAA in the same way as previously implemented with Ulster GAA. This post provided support, guidance and training to clubs, county boards, schools and communities, with a wide range of Irish-language activities and events developed as a result.
Aedín Ní Bhriain was appointed as the Irish-language development officer for the duration of the project, and she led and coordinated the daily implementation of the scheme. Throughout the lifetime of the project there was an emphasis on visibility and use of Irish at major and regional matches, on Irish content in programmes and digital platforms, as well as on providing training and resources for staff, officers, and committees.
Strong partnerships were developed with Irish-language organisations, natural opportunities for use were created for young people and adults alike, and a comprehensive scholarship scheme was developed to enable young people to attend the Gaeltacht.
Foras na Gaeilge Chief Executive, Seán Ó Coinn and Munster GAA Chief Executive, Kieran Leddy, attended the project’s concluding meeting at Áras Mumhan, Limerick, on Thursday, 22nd January. The highlights of the work and the substantial benefits associated with the project across Munster were discussed. It was agreed that the scheme has left a positive legacy, permanent structures, and a long-term impact on the use of and attitudes towards the Irish language within GAA life in the province, and that this work will be built upon in the future. Foras na Gaeilge is committed to supporting similar projects in the years ahead.
Aedín Ní Bhriain will continue in her role with Munster GAA and will be employed directly by the GAA going forward, ensuring continuity of the work. She will continue to promote the Irish language across the province and will work in collaboration with the Ulster GAA officer and the Irish Language Development Officer in Croke Park on national initiatives. This decision reflects the GAA’s ongoing commitment to the Irish language and acknowledges the success and positive impact of the project.
Munster GAA Chairperson Tadhg Ó Murchú said, “Munster GAA is delighted to continue with this initiative after three years of our pilot project with Foras na Gaeilge. The promotion of our native language has always been, and will continue to be, at the heart of the GAA as an organisation, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate our rich heritage and language for generations to come.”
