Gaillimh le Gaeilge was honoured with a Mayoral Reception recently for the work their team do to keep the Irish Language alive in Galway.
Mayor of Galway City Cllr Clodagh Higgins hosted Bríd Ní Chonghóile, CEO of Gaillimh le Gaelige, and her team at city hall last week.
Galway City is designated as ‘Gaeltacht Service Town’, meaning that it works closely with nearby Gaeltacht communities, and also takes pride in its status as a bilingual city.
Speaking at the reception, Mayor Higgins said that designations like that happed due to the “dedicated, energetic people” who love the Irish language, and are deeply committed to their heritage.
“The Irish language has so many words and expressions that describe the unique landscape, people, animals and nature, and ways of thinking and living that make us who we are”.
“This Mayoral Reception is to honour a group of people who have played a hugely important role in keeping Gaeilge i nGaillimh.”
“Your work to develop an Irish Language Plan for Galway City, among many other projects, are instrumental in keeping Gaeilge in our consciousness and in our lives.”
The Mayor thanked Bríd and her team for their work, and wished them the best for the various projects they are involved in.
These include Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh, An Coiste Logainmneacha, Gaeilge sa Ghnó service, An tEolaire – Seirbhís i nGaeilge, Irish on the Menus and the Pioc Suas Mé! – Give Irish a Go booklet.
Bríd expressed her gratitude for the honour, saying, “Is cúis mhór áthais agus bróid dom an onóir seo ó Mhéara Chathair na Gaillimhe an Comhairleoir Clodagh Higgins.”
“This is an incredibly special and wonderful way to celebrate the Irish language and all the bilingual work that has been done in the city. Tá mé thar a bheith buíoch don Mhéara as an onóir seo a bhronnadh orm agus ar Ghaillimh le Gaeilge ar aon.”
“In addition, this honour pays tribute to everyone who has worked or supported Gaillimh le Gaeilge for the past 30 years.”
“I want to especially say ‘buíochas ó chroí’ to Gearóidn Hynes, Projects Manager, who has worked with me for over fifteen years. In addition, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all Bord Stiúrtha members, past and present. Ní neart go cur le chéile.”
