Kerry TD calls for more Gaeltacht support as growth of Irish language has ‘fallen flat’

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

A Kerry TD has called for more support for Ireland’s Gaeltachts as growth of Irish language has “fallen flat”.

Kerry TD Michael Cahill said the government needs to “reinvigorate” its efforts to increase Irish language literacy in schools and further afield.

Deputy Cahill suggested expanding the Gaeltacht scholarship scheme which provides additional funding for school students under 18 years old attending Gaeltacht courses.

Under the initiative applicants receive €150 for a two-week course or €250 for a three-week course, facilitating over 800 scholarships in total.

“It has become increasingly apparent that most of our population have the aspiration, but not the motivation to learn and use our native tongue,” said Deputy Cahill.

“This is where I believe our government departments must now reinvigorate their ideas and efforts. The crusade on behalf of reclaiming our native language seems to have fallen flat and now is the time to take a whole new look at what needs to be done.

“The present Gaeltacht scheme for school goers has been running many years now but seems to be a little stale and requires a big injection of energy and investment to bring new life to it, to our language and Gaeltacht areas.”

Deputy Cahill proposed a larger support package including a more extensive Gaeltacht activity programme with the potential for month-long courses with support that would encourage whole families to holiday for the duration.

Taking inspiration from Kerry’s Cappanalea Outdoor Education Centre near Killorglin, the courses could be complemented by outdoor activities, both land and water based, said Deputy Cahill.

“This will not alone encourage a wider understanding and learning of our native language, but will also encourage the Gaeltacht areas themselves to grow and extend. It will encourage Staycations by families and it will be a healthy, outdoor, learning experience, enriching our students with their native culture,” said Deputy Cahill.

“The Kerry Gaeltacht areas of Uíbh Ráthaigh and Corca Dhuibhne and our Cork neighbours in Múscraí and Oileain Chléire are but an example of areas that are in danger of compacting rather than expanding.

“Encouraging the use of the Irish language and using its speakers to facilitate that, will help develop these challenged economies and will enhance our own culture. It will even increase the attractiveness of our visitor areas and our people as a race with our own native identity.”