Irish language must be supported financially
Calls for more funding to be allocated for Irish language were made during this month’s meeting of Cavan County Council.
Cllr Stiofán Conaty (SF), who works with Conradh na Gaeilge, told those gathered that he “knows first hand” that the main obstacle to the organisation’s work often is the Irish State itself.
He also highlighted how the Irish language community was forced to go on strike - a decision made the previous week - because of their opposition to cuts in funding of €820,000.
“Community groups and lead organisations who are affected by the cuts now aim to resolve long-term investment issues and lack of equality and funding in the Irish language sector, as well as calling for this latest short-term emergency to be resolved,” said Cllr Conaty.
“This latest cut comes at a time when the DUP is blocking a proposal to amend the funding structure of the cross-border language body, Foras na Gaeilge. Therefore, the DUP is vetoing additional funding for the Irish language on a 32-county basis at a time when the Irish Government has said that they have extra money ready to go immediately to Foras na Gaeilge.”
Meanwhile, groups are calling for Foras na Gaeilge to be scrapped.
They are seeking a new funding model along with a restoration and reversal of the latest cut.
They want an additional €20M to be made available - as outlined in the Plean Fáis Growth Plan, an investment strategy agreed by 130 groups nationwide and presented to the government in advance of the Budget.
“Irish language community groups in County Cavan and across the country are under enormous pressure,” Cllr Conaty added.
“They are struggling to heat and light their buildings, let alone provide basic services and implement work plans.
It is clear that we have a huge problem and that Foras na Gaeilge as an entity must be replaced. The Irish speaking community is united in the fact that the funding structure is completely broken and has completely failed.”
Cllr Aine Smith (FF), an Irish teacher by profession, further outlined the impact of the funding crisis. “So many organisations will be affected by this including development, schemes arts, events, drama, summer camps, third level scholarships, and the Irish language media,” she continued.
“Several groups have expressed concern that an already tight budget has now been cut. In order for us to enhance and promote the Irish language, these groups need to be better funded.
“This funding is needed to allow groups to pay staff, rent offices and usual running costs.
“The current level of financial support for the Irish language is completely inadequate.”
Cllr Smith asked the executive of Cavan County Council to appeal to the Minister for the Gaeltacht to increase funding at government level.
“It is still only a small investment by the State in our primary language and more financial support is needed for bodies that are doing good work,” she said.
There was unanimous support in the chamber for Cllr Conaty’s motion.