Dedicated Irish speakers in Leitrim push for Oifigeach Gaeilge after 12 year vacancy
At Tionól Gaeilge 2024, progress of Leitrim's use of Irish was reported, with a strong focus on securing a full-time Oifigeach Gaeilge for the county.
Dedicated Gaeilge enthusiasts in Leitrim participated in the annual Tionól Liatroma gathering in Drumshanbo on November 14.
Significant progress in reviving the Irish language in Leitrim was highlighted at the meeting. The county’s two Gaelscoileanna, in Carrick-on-Shannon and Manorhamilton, reported high enrolment figures.
Cumann na bhFiann, the youth clubs in Drumshanbo and Ballinamore that operate through Irish, also noted increased participation.
Furthermore, attendance at Irish classes and Ciorcal Cómhra sessions in Manorhamilton, Ballinamore and Dromahair have grown steadily, with record attendance seen at Ballinammore Library this Autumn.
Irish classes have also recently begun in Mohill Library on Thursday mornings.
However, the main focus of the gathering was the demand for a full-time Oifigeach Gaeilge, or Irish Language Officer in Leitrim according to Seán Ó Súilleabháin, Irish language activist.
In June of this year, Conradh na Gaeilge made a presentation at a full meeting of Leitrim County Council where they outlined the need for such a position.
At the meeting, Conradh na Gaeilge noted that the county now has a full-time Arts Officer, a Heritage Officer and Biodiversity Officer which are all welcome developments, but the Irish language is entirely dependent on voluntary enthusiasts, with no backup.
Councillors gave unanimous backing to the delegation’s call for a full-time Oifigeach Gaeilge.
Leitrim once had a full-time Oifigeach Gaeilge for a period of about 10 months in 2012, with the role filled by Seán Ó Murchadha. Most counties have one Oifigeach Gaeilge in place, and some areas, particularly in the North, have multiple officers.
“Approaches are now being made to Leitrim’s councillors to push for the appointment of an Oifigeach Gaeilge in the county as a matter of urgency,” said Seán Ó Suilleabháin.