The Irish language community is making a strong statement about the importance of language funding with a half-day strike for the first time. Over 40 organizations in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are participating in this action to protest cuts in cross-border language funding. Cities like Belfast, Londonderry, Dublin, Galway, and Donegal will see these organizations close their doors on Wednesday morning due to cuts made by Foras na Gaeilge, the all-Ireland Irish language agency.
Conchúr Ó Muadaigh, the Advocacy Manager of Conradh na Gaeilge, expressed that this strike is a last resort for the community. He highlighted that the Irish language and Gaeltacht community feel unheard and are urging both the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland governments to take immediate action in addressing the funding issue. According to Ó Muadaigh, the lack of progress on a new funding mechanism for North-South bodies is being attributed to obstacles from the DUP, resulting in the community’s call for practical solutions and long-term funding sustainability.
President of Conradh na Gaeilge, Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin, expressed regret over the necessity of the strike due to the failures in properly funding the promotion of the Irish language over the past two decades. He emphasized that the recent cuts are detrimental to already financially strained groups, reflecting the collective frustration and anger towards consistent declines in Irish language funding. The organizations on strike are united in their plea for a revised funding model for Foras na Gaeilge and the reversal of cuts if additional government funding is received.
The strike will see venues like Cultúrlann McAdaim Ó Fiaich, Glór na Móna, and Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin closed during the strike hours, making a visible statement on the urgent need for sustainable and sufficient funding to support the Irish language and Gaeltacht community. The call for action is clear, with the striking organizations emphasizing the necessity for both governments to prioritize and address the crisis in language funding and ensure a prosperous future for Irish language promotion
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
