Cork Schools Honoured for Irish Language Promotion at Gaelbhratach Ceremony

Six schools from Cork were awarded Gaelbhratach flags at a special ceremony held at Mary Immaculate College in Limerick this week, recognising their outstanding commitment to promoting the Irish language beyond the classroom.

Students from the Cork schools were celebrated for organising and running various Irish language activities throughout the school year, including treasure hunts, ciorcal cómhrá (conversation circles), céilí dances, sports competitions conducted through Irish, tea and discussion sessions, and debates.

The initiative, run by Gael Linn, marked its 11th year of operation in post-primary schools. This year saw a substantial increase in participation, with 130 flags awarded to post-primary schools across Ireland, nearly double the number from last year.

The Cork schools honoured at the ceremony were Carrigtwohill Community College, Coachford College, Gaelcholáiste Mhuire A.G in Cork city, Glanmire Community College, Kinsale Community School, and St. Mary's Secondary School in Mallow.

Edel Ní Bhraonáin, Bainisteoir Gaelbhratach, highlighted the importance of the programme:

"Gaelbhratach gives young people of any age or background the opportunity to use and develop their Irish language skills outside of the traditional classroom setting. The programme aims to put the student voice at the centre of their learning through the Gaelbhratach committee."

She added, "The scheme is going from strength to strength, with 65 schools being awarded a flag for the first time this year. It's inspiring to see young people's growing passion for the language."

The Gaelbhratach initiative focuses on connecting the Irish language with activities students enjoy, such as music, sport and art, while creating regular opportunities to practise through adapting daily routines to include more Irish. The scheme is funded by Foras na Gaeilge, the Department of Education and the Department Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

Gael Linn, established in 1953, continues its mission to nurture and promote the Irish language and heritage throughout Ireland, operating programmes in education, supporting active use of Irish, and music.