The Cumann Gaelach (Irish Society) at Dunamase College has been at the heart of promoting the Irish language since its establishment in January 2023.
From organising engaging Irish activities for local primary schools to producing their own podcast, The GaelTalkers, their grá (love) for the language is evident in everything they do.
This year, the school has also embarked on the exciting journey of earning the Gaelbhratach, a national award that recognises schools for their dedication to fostering Irish in everyday life.
Through student-led projects, cultural initiatives, and participation in Irish-language events, the Gaelbhratach Committee and Cumann Gaelach are working tirelessly to ensure that Gaeilge is not just seen as a school subject but a living, thriving language within the school and local community.
As part of this year’s Seachtain na Gaeilge celebrations, the Gaelbhratach Committee and Cumann Gaelach partnered with Portlaoise Library to host a lively Pop-Up Gaeltacht on Wednesday, March 12.
The event was a fantastic success, bringing together students, teachers, and members of the wider community to celebrate and speak Irish in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Throughout the event, attendees engaged in conversations as Gaeilge, played language games, and embraced the opportunity to use the language outside of a formal learning environment.
Whether fluent speakers or enthusiastic learners, everyone contributed to the lively and inclusive atmosphere.
Reflecting on the experience, members of the Gaelbhratach Committee shared: ”It was lovely to have people coming together to use the Irish language in a natural setting – Irish is not just for the classroom.
“The success of our Pop-Up Gaeltacht really shows that Irish is alive and thriving in our community.”
Students also acknowledged the key role played by Portlaoise Library, which provided a welcoming space and helped encourage greater community involvement in the event.
This Pop-Up Gaeltacht was just one of many initiatives organised by the Cumann Gaelach and Gaelbhratach Committee as part of Seachtain na Gaeilge, a national festival celebrating the Irish language.
As well as hosting this event, students visited local primary schools to share their love of Irish culture through Irish ‘Céilí’ dancing and they also organised a quiz in the library for students from Holy Family.
Teachers Chloe Ní Ghealbháin and Niamh Strong expressed their pride in the students’ dedication to the Irish language: ”We are so proud of our students’ commitment to celebrating Irish language and culture.
“There’s a lovely Irish proverb—‘Mol an óige, agus tiocfaidh sí’—which means ‘Praise the youth, and they will prosper.’
“Our students are proving to be incredible ambassadors for Gaeilge, not just in our school but in the wider community.
“Through their outreach to primary schools and their commitment to events like this, they are inspiring the next generation of Gaeilgeoirí.
“We look forward to seeing where their passion for the language takes them next.
“With the enthusiasm and dedication shown by these young language leaders, the future of Irish in Dunamase College and the Portlaoise community is brighter than ever.
“Their Gaelbhratach journey continues, ensuring that Gaeilge remains a vibrant and celebrated part of everyday life.
“We wish them continued success on their journey to achieving the Gaelbhratach and in their efforts to promote the Irish language in our community for years to come.”
 at Dunamase College has been at the heart of promoting the Irish language since its establishment in January 2023.){kind=link}