Irish Language Courses Supported With €1.6m Funding Boost

Funding of more than €1.6 million has been announced for the support of a number of Irish language courses, under the Advanced Irish Language Initiative.

The funding supports a range of specialised third level Irish language courses in areas such as translation, interpretation and law to enable students to grasp opportunities both in Ireland and abroad, particularly at EU level.

A commitment of both the Twenty Year Strategy for the Irish Language and the Government's Five Year Action Plan for the Irish Language, the Advanced Irish Language Initiative funds 12 third level courses in total that help meet commitments under the Official Languages Act and also support the ongoing work to make Irish a full working language of the European Union.

Confirming the funding on a visit to Gaelchultúr, Sean Kyne TD, Government Chief Whip and Aire don Ghaeilge, don Ghaeltacht agus do na hOileáin, said: "This additional funding of €811,953 and €817,539 over the next two academic years (2019/20 and 2020/21) demonstrates our commitment to high quality and practical third-level Irish language courses across the country

"A range of courses including masters and higher diplomas in translation, in law and in interpretation will equip students with the skills necessary to take up employment opportunities here at home and in the EU."

(MH/CM)