Ulster GAA To Improve Irish Language In Ulster Clubs

Ulster GAA clubs are to receive assistance in helping members improve the use of the Irish language across the province.

The Ulster GAA has teamed up with the University of Ulster to unveil a major sponsorship programme for adult students of the Irish language.

The scholarship scheme will run in partnership with the School of Irish Language and Literature and is to be known as Gaeilge sa Chlub (‘Irish in the Club’).

The scheme will provide financial assistance to GAA members who sign up for the Diploma in Irish Language course at Ulster.

Dr Malachy Ó Néill, Head of School of Irish Language and Literature at Ulster welcomed the scheme.

He said: "This is a significant investment by Ulster GAA in club members throughout the province. There is a growing appreciation of increased employability for Irish language graduates and this pioneering project is in keeping with the ethos of the GAA and the current DCAL initiative for Líofa 2015."

Martin McAviney, President of Ulster GAA, added: "This initiative enhances the existing strong links between Comhairle Uladh and the University of Ulster, developing the current sporting partnership with a new cultural and linguistic dimension."

Donegal All-Ireland winning footballer Éamonn McGee, who graduated with the Diploma in Irish Language earlier this week, said: "The Diploma was a real game-changer for me - now I'm starting the degree in September. The part-time course is ideal for someone with a busy lifestyle."

(IT/MH)