Flying the flag for Irish language

ST MARY’S in Glasnevin and Coláiste Mhuire Cabra were amongst eight secondary schools in Dublin awarded the Gaelbhratach flag in recognition of their work promoting the Irish language.

Students from both the Northside schools accepted the flags at a presentation ceremony held in the Pavilion at Leopardstown Racecourse last month.

They were among some 500 pupils from 70 secondary schools nationwide, along with their teachers, whose achievements were marked at the celebratory occasion.

The flags were presented by TG4 weather presenter, Caitlín Nic Aoidh.

The Gaelbhratach flag scheme is operated by Gael Linn in both primary and secondary schools throughout the country, with funding from Foras na Gaeilge and the Department of Education and Skills.

Gaelbhratach co-ordinator at second level, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, said the schools presented with flags should be very proud of what they had accomplished.

“It takes huge commitment and a lot of hard work for schools to be awarded the Gaelbhratach,” she said.

“They have many targets to attain and their work must be documented and verified throughout the school year.”

Ní Bhraonáin also acknowledged the support of Conradh na Gaeilge and Glór na nGael in organising the scheme.

The event was co-hosted by renowned spoken-word artist, Ciara Ní É and TG4 presenter, Eoghan Ó Loideáin.

The popular West Kerry group Scannal entertained the hundreds of young people gathered with their exuberant style of music, and there was plenty of dancing and singing throughout.

Chairman of Foras na Gaeilge, Pól Ó Gallchóir and Antoine Ó Coileáin, CEO, Gael Linn, thanked the teachers for their support of the scheme within their schools.

Ó Coileáin also announced that, thanks to additional funding from the Department of Education and Skills, Gael Linn hope to accept more schools from the waiting lists of the many schools wishing to join the scheme.