Carlow students receive Irish flag for 'passion and energy' for Irish language
A record-breaking total of 165 post-primary schools, including in Carlow, have been awarded the Gaelbhratach
Students from three schools in Carlow were awarded a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Limerick.
Irish language extracurricular trips and commitments to speaking Irish every day were among the activities organised and run by students in Carlow, for which they were awarded the prestigious prize from Gael Linn at Mary Immaculate College.
Delivered by Gael Linn, Gaelbhratach is a national programme designed to encourage students at primary and post-primary level to use Irish beyond the classroom in a natural and enjoyable way.
The initiative continues to grow year on year, with 2026 marking yet another milestone in its continued expansion at post-primary level.
For the first time, schools from all 32 counties took part.
This year, a record-breaking total of 165 post-primary schools, including in Carlow, have been awarded the Gaelbhratach — the highest number to date.
Each flag recognises the commitment of students and schools to promoting Irish as a living language within their schools and communities.
A further cohort of primary schools will be recognised in separate events later this year.
Carlow schools that were awarded a Gaelbhratach in Limerick this week were Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach and Tyndall College.
"Gaeilge is such an important part of my life and identity, and it continues to open doors for me in so many ways. It’s a real privilege to be here today celebrating the passion and energy Carlow students bring to the language," Máire Ní Churraoin, TV presenter, sean-nós singer and social media influencer said.