Cavan students recognised for their grá for Gaeilge

Students from Knocktemple National School, Virginia were presented with a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, last week. A fashion show, yoga classes and a coffee morning are just some of the activities set up and run by the student committee in Knocktemple National School that was recognised for their promotion of the Irish language.

Cavan schools that will be visited by the Gaelbhratach staff to receive their award in the coming weeks are St. Clare’s National School, Ballyjamesduff and Kilnaleck National School, Kilnaleck.

Run by Gael Linn, ‘Gaelbhratach' is a national initiative that encourages primary and secondary school students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting.

Over 70 flags will be awarded to primary school students across Ireland - the most awarded in any one year.

Flags are awarded in recognition of their efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish. Commenting on the ceremony, Niamh Ní Chróinín, TV presenter at Cúla 4, TG4, said:

“Congratulations to all the dedicated students who are using Irish in such fun and exciting ways.

Being able to speak Irish has brought me so many opportunities and it is so encouraging to see so many young people engage with the language.

The Gaelbhratach scheme is a fantastic way for students to take charge of their own use of the language, bring it into everyday life and make it enjoyable.”