Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Breton-related news item

Mixed messages from French national Assembly on minority languages (May 27, 2008)
http://www.nowpublic.com/culture/mixed-messages-french-national-assembly-minority-languages

“The amendment states that the 'regional' languages of France are part of the heritage of France, but the new amendment will only apply to Article 1 of the Constitution and not the much disputed Article 2, which states that the language of France is French. The amendment has therefore received only a lukewarm response by Breton nationalist parties like the Union Démocratique Bretonne, because of its restricted nature.”

News through an 28ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Gaeilge, Béarla agus F*!*? (May 25, 2008)
http://www.emigrant.ie/article.asp?iCategoryID=9&iArticleID=76680

“Our new Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, had already established his credentials as an Irish speaker and on Wednesday he furthered his reputation as a linguist when a Dáil microphone picked up an aside that wasn't meant for public consumption.”

Dublin remembers famine victims (May 26, 2008)
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/05/26/2255163.htm?section=world

...“Mr Curran said the famine contributed significantly to the decline of the Irish language, with the number of native Irish speakers halving to two million by 1851.”

In the papers 26 May
http://www.enn.ie/article/10124419.html

...“The same paper reports that Samsung is set to launch a new Irish language mobile phone, the Tocco. The new device will allow mobile phone owners to use predictive text in Irish. The company has hired a translation company in Ireland to make the changes to the 44,000 word dictionary. Samsung said the phone isn't a once-off gimmick, and the facility will be added as a premium feature for what it describes as ‘key launches’, although it won't necessarily put the Irish text on every new device. The Tocco will also come with a touch screen and a 5 megapixel camera.”

‘An Bhfuil Cead Agam’ Seek Participants (May 26, 2008)
http://www.iftn.ie/?act1=record&only=1&aid=73&rid=4281230&tpl=archnews

“Mind the Gap Films is seeking participants to spend a week in the Connemara Gaeltacht for new RTE reality series ‘An Bhfuil Cead Agam?’”

Viewpoint: Language lessons vital for our future (May 26, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/atex-imports/article3739155.ece

“It's easy to identify areas of public spending that need more money, but we can't expect the numbers of people needing English instruction to fall anytime soon.
“If the Republic's experience is anything to go by, the numbers will only increase.
“This offers a challenge for Irish language activists as well. Already some public services are having to decide between spending money on providing material in Irish or in other languages.”

Irish language table quiz (May 27, 2008)
http://www.derryjournal.com/journal/Irish-language-table-quiz.4120657.jp

“Fancy the opportunity to speak Irish in a fun environment? Then come along to the AOH hall in Foyle Street this Friday for a table quiz.”

Big Lottery celebrates local success stories (May 27, 2008)
http://www.derryjournal.com/journal/Big-Lottery-celebrates-local-success.4120659.jp

“The Big Lottery is teaming up with the Rath Mor Centre in Creggan tomorrow for a celebration event to to tell local people who play the National Lottery about how their £1 has helped change the lives of many people in the city. The event runs from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
“Local projects which have been funded include Sean Dolan’s GAC’s YAX Project, which got £150k, the ‘Da - Young Fathers’ scheme, which got almost half a million pounds, and an Irish language pre-school project which received £16,200.”

Here not There (May 28, 2008)
http://www.nouse.co.uk/2008/05/28/here-not-there/

...“However, Heathers maintain a distinctly Irish feel and don’t resort to faux-American accents as per many recent bands; interestingly, a ‘secret’ track at the end of the record features an Irish-language song.”

O'Keeffe encourages NI teachers south (May 28, 2008)
http://www.ireland.com/newspaper/breaking/2008/0528/breaking84.htm

...“Traditional requirements for knowledge of Irish have been waived to allow a spell of learning for new teachers.”

World First Gaelige Option Mobile Phone (May 28, 2008)
http://www.irishdev.com/NewsArticle.aspx?id=6676

“Samsung Electronics – is setting new standards in the Irish mobile phone market with the introduction of the world’s first Irish language option handset.”

Samsung unveils Irish-language phone (May 28, 2008)
http://www.ireland.com/newspaper/breaking/2008/0528/breaking32.html?via=me

...“Three translators, all with degrees in Irish, worked on the project, Samsung said.”

Samsung unveils first phone ‘as Gaeilge’ (May 28, 2008)
http://www.siliconrepublic.com/news/news.nv?storyid=single11131

...“Samsung country manager, Gary Twohig, said the new phone with Irish language features is a strong statement of intent for the Irish market.”

Saturday, May 24, 2008

News Your-Noun-Here through an 24ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Opinion: Decent people like the Irish should be encouraged to do good (May 18, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/.htmlnt-people-like-the-irish-should-be-encouraged-to-do-good-1379025.html
“Some say our welfare system shows how civilised we are. But it's not, and that's because it is based on people paying taxes through obligation and fear. Philanthropy is about doing it because you want to.
“Facing a huge intergenerational transfer of wealth...Ireland is in a position to channel resources into a variety of good causes.
“Let me mention two: Where the state education system has killed enthusiasm for Irish, Conradh na Gaeilge is pioneering a passion for it. The Arts Council is also underfunded, so many brilliant artists struggle in an otherwise prosperous economy.”

Galway impress against woeful Roscommon (May 18, 2008)
http://www.galwayfirst.ie/content/view/2964/1006/
...“It was only when listening to the tall and well built GMIT student speaking beautiful fluent Gaeilge to Seán Bán Breathnach on Radio Na Gaeltachta in the press box after the game that I realised what a fine big strong young man he is.”
[There's really not much else about Irish -- I just thought this was an amusing sentence.]

State aid to Irish Broadcasting and Media (May 19, 2008)
http://euroalert.net/en/news.aspx?idn=7111

“Under the Broadcasting Authority Act 1960 and Broadcasting Act 1001 the Irish state has an alotted 220 million euros in the way of a direct grant aimed at providing services of general economic interest within its Media area. State financing will go to Radio Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ) and Teilifís na Gaeilge (TG4).”

Tipperary GAA Scene: GAA launch Irish booklet (May 20, 2008)
http://www.tipperarytoday.ie/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=3166&ArticleID=1496840

“A booklet of terms in the Irish language for use by officials, players and supporters of the Gaelic Athletic Association was launched in Killarney by Minister for Community, Rural and Ghaeltacht Affairs Éamon Ó Cuív, T.D. recently.”

Irish language classes for PSNI (May 20, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/FH/free/337395628687733.php
“Asked by Sean Lynch, a new Independent member for Erne East on the Fermanagh District Policing Partnership Board, how many PSNI officers under his command were fluent Irish speakers, Chief Inspector Alwyin Barton dealt out some surprises in his answer.”

Writing for the generations (May 22, 2008)
http://www.galwayadvertiser.ie/content/index.php?aid=12100

“He is the man in the shop in Ros na Rún on TG 4 — Peadar. In the telephone book he adds after his name that he is a plasterer. He is all of that. And last week he won the overall Galway County Council Arts Award.”

David Healy football row kicks off (May 23, 2008)
http://www.ballymoneytimes.co.uk/news/David-Healy-football-row-kicks.4115289.jp

...“Cllr Padraig McShane (Sinn Fein) said recently his party asked for support for funding for Irish language street signs which did not go ahead and he wanted to know the Council expenditure on Ulster Scots as opposed to the Irish language.”

Ireland to mark famine disaster (May 23, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7415927.stm

...“Making the announcement, Community Affairs Minister Eamon O Cuiv said a committee would consider the various possibilities.
“The minister, a grandson of former Taoiseach and President Eamon De Valera, said: ‘The effects of the Great Famine are still evident today and its legacy has given Irish people an appreciation of issues such as food security and a strong commitment to humanitarian aid and relief.’
"‘If the Famine didn't happen, there could be 12 million people living in Ireland and eight million could be native Irish speakers.’"

The write stuff: 8,000 pupils compose books 'as Gaeilge' (May 23, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/latest-news/the-write-stuff-8000-pupils-compose-books-as-gaeilge-1383896.html

“Who says pupils don't like Irish? With an imaginative project and encouragement from their teachers they will write fluently 'as Gaeilge'.
“More than 8,000 children took part in 'Scriobh Leabhar', a project which promotes reading and writing through Irish. Hosted through seven education centres nationwide, 'Scriobh Leabhar' encourages primary school children to compose, design and publish their own books in Irish.”

Sunday, May 18, 2008

"Real" Ireland?

Not about Irish, though one or two bits of Irish show up, but I thought it was a nice travel piece:
Does the ‘Real’ Ireland Still Exist? (May 18, 2008)
http://travel.nytimes.com/2008/05/18/travel/18ireland.html

Friday, May 16, 2008

News scuffle through an 16ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Plans to end the ding dong over what Dingle is called (May 7, 2008)
http://www.theirishworld.com/article.asp?SubSection_Id=9&Article_Id=5494

“The town of Dingle, one of Ireland's best-known tourist destinations, won its battle against an Irish government ruling to adopt the Irish language version of its name.”

Reilly boycotts Mourne Esplanade opening (May 9, 2008)
http://www.mourneobserver.com/080508/News/Reilly%20boycotts%20Mourne%20Esplanade%20opening.htm

“Newry and Mourne Councillor Henry Reilly boycotted the official opening of the new Mourne Esplanade environmental improvement scheme last Friday in protest at the use of Irish language signage in the area.”

New approach to Gaeltacht traditions (May 11, 2008)
http://www.sbpost.ie/post/pages/p/story.aspx-qqqt=People+In+Business-qqqm=nav-qqqid=32743-qqqx=1.asp
“The Jesuits like to describe their education philosophy as ‘give me the boy and I’ll give you the man’. Caoimhín Ó hEaghra is no Jesuit, but he says that if you give him your child for three weeks in the summer, he will give you back someone who speaks Irish and who has a real love of Irish culture.”

Gairmeacha le Gaeilge (May 12, 2008)
http://www.dcu.ie/news/events.php?function=2&id=1210167790

“Gairmeacha le Gaeilge event aims to increase awareness amongst career professionals in 3rd level sector and the gaelscoileanna of courses and careers, through Irish, available to students.”

Achievements of Assembly should be marked – MLA (May 13, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/Achievements-of-Assembly-should-be.4075493.jp
“He went on to point out some of the headway that had been made by the executive, including the effects the budget had had on local homeowners.
...“‘As a result of the decision made by DCAL Minister Edwin Poots, there will not be an Irish Language Act and we have ended the disparity in funding between Irish and Ulster-Scots.’”

School's out for order that left such a mark on Ireland (May 13, 2008)
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/europe/schools-out-for-order-that-left-such-a-mark-on-ireland-826990.html

“An epoch in Irish education and society is coming to an end: the Christian Brothers, who over 200 years built the most formidable of reputations, are ending their day-to-day involvement in running schools.”

Second Annual Irish Language Immersion Day (May 13, 2008)
http://www.marylhurst.edu/aboutmarylhurst/pressrelease20080513.php

“An Irish Language Immersion Day—for fluent speakers and absolute beginners—will introduce the delights of the Irish language during courses and workshops at Marylhurst University on Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration deadline is May 28, 2008. A $40 fee includes all activities and a box lunch. To register, call 360.954.5529.”

Corr! Andrea could fairly puck the ol Sliotar (May 14, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/FH/free/334177349047399.php

...“Very much an athletic organisation at its outset, the GAA also strove to rescue the indigenous games of hurling and football from the Anglicisation which was occurring in many parts of Irish life at the time. It was also a cultural organisation, which promoted the Irish language and the Irish way of life. It was all inclusive and in its early days enjoyed the support of both Nationalist and Unionist Irishmen.
“Over the years the original ideals have changed very little, although I would argue that the political language added some thirty plus years ago could be removed and the original wording restored but that is a battle for another day. But as Gaels, we must ask ourselves do we really actively promote all these Ideals. Or are we, to coin a phrase, a la carte Gaels?”

Dail cub scouts in class of their own when speaking 'as Gaeilge' (May 15, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/dail-cub-scouts-in-class-of-their-own-when-speaking-as-gaeilge-1375660.html

...“And so, the Dail's self-proclaimed comedians and wannabe gaelgoirs met a real comedian who told them they could become fluent speakers in just 12 months, and be just like their esteemed leaders.”

Six Irish films on Edinburgh programme (May 15, 2008)
http://www.rte.ie/arts/2008/0515/edinburghfilmfestival.html

“Six Irish films, including the RTÉ-screened 'Eden' and 'Fairytale of Kathmandu', are to be screened at the 62nd Edinburgh Film Festival in June.”

Fairytale of Kathmandu wins Madrid award (May 15, 2008)
http://www.rte.ie/arts/2008/0515/fairytaleofkathmandu.html

“'Fairytale of Kathmandu', the controversial documentary directed by Neasa Ní Chianáin, has won second prize in the International Documentary Festival of Madrid.”

Invite to Glor na nGael social (May 15, 2008)
http://www.wicklowpeople.ie/news/invite-to-glor-na-ngael-social-1377703.html

“Ba mhaith linn cuireadh a thabhairt do dhaoine teacht chuig oíche soisialta Glór na nGael san Arklow Bay ag 8.00i.n. ar an Deardaoin 15œ Bealtaine.”

Pre-school and after-school funding for Achill (May 16, 2008)
http://www.mayoadvertiser.com/index.php?aid=6025

“Éamon Ó Cuív TD Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, today announced that he has sanctioned a grant of €466,309 to enable Coiste Naíonra and Iar-Scoil Naomh Seosamh to construct a new building for pre-school and after-school services in the Acaill area.”

Irish classes for PSNI officers (May 16, 2008)
http://www.derryjournal.com/county/Irish-classes-for-PSNI-officers.4090500.jp

“Irish language classes for police officers are being held weekly at Limavady PSNI station, the 'Journal' can reveal.”

Ireland’s Fetching Dingle Peninsula (May 16, 2008)
http://thenews.choate.edu/2008/05/16/Nation/Irelands_Fetching_Dingle_P.php

...“In fact, the western half of the Dingle Peninsula is a “gaeltacht,” a region of Ireland where the majority of residents speak Gaelic (a.k.a. Irish) as their first language.”

Offaly Fleadh Cheoil an overwhelming success (May 16, 2008)
http://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/Offaly-Fleadh-Cheoil-an-overwhelming.4093045.jp

“The 2008 Offaly Fleadh Cheoil, hosted by Rahan CCE, took place in Killina last week from the May 4 to 11. This is the first year that the Offaly Fleadh Cheoil was held as a week long event and it proved a tremendous success.”

Interview: Joint First Minister Martin McGuinness, one year on from the new Executive (May 16, 2008)
http://www.anphoblacht.com/news/detail/28907

...“I want to ensure that we continue the work of making a difference to people’s lives and implementing agreements such as, for example, on the issue of the transfer of powers on policing and justice, the Irish language, the implementation of the Programme for Government, and the Investment Strategy, which has a figure of over £20 billion over the next 10 years.”

O'Keeffe must reverse directive on immersion teaching (May 16, 2008)
http://www.anphoblacht.com/news/detail/28887

“Sinn Féin mounted a protest at Leinster House on Tuesday evening against Government plans to end Irish-language immersion teaching.
“Speaking at the protest, Sinn Féin Education spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty called on new Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe to reverse plans by his predecessor, Mary Hanafin, undermining the educational method known in Irish as ‘tuimoideachas’.”

Madrid Fest Award for Ni Chianain’s ‘Kathmandu’ (May 16, 2008)
http://www.iftn.ie/?act1=record&only=1&aid=73&rid=4281206&tpl=archnews

“Neasa Ni Chianain’s controversial documentary ‘Fairytale of Kathmandu’ has scooped second prize in the Original Documentary category at the Documenta Madrid film festival, which took place from the 2nd-11th May 2008. The accolade came with a €5,000 cash prize.”

SF slams Reilly over Irish language stance (May 16, 2008)
http://www.mourneobserver.com/150508/News/SF%20slams%20Reilly%20over%20Irish%20language%20stance.htm

“Sinn Fein has criticised Cllr Henry Reilly for boycotting the recent official opening of the environmental improvement scheme at Mourne Esplanade.”

Saturday, May 10, 2008

More news from across the puddle

Tribute to inspirational teacher (May 6, 2008)
http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=144125&command=displayContent&sourceNode=232510&home=yes&more_nodeId1=232470&contentPK=20552804

"A man who devoted many years of his life to the study of the Cornish language and was keen to give others the opportunity to learn the ancient idiom wherever they were in the world has received glowing tributes from his many supporters.
"Ray Edwards, who died at his home in Sutton Coldfield last month, was the founder of the Kernewek dre Lyther (Cornish by Letter) teaching method. Born in 1924, he published several books on the subject, studied ancient texts, undertook huge translation projects and gently led and encouraged hundreds of students through their grades."

News whatsis through an 10ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Gaelic Conference for NYC (May 7, 2008)
http://www.irishabroad.com/news/irish-voice/news/Articles/gaelic-conference070508.aspx

“On May 17 and 18, the Affinia Hotel on Seventh Avenue in Manhattan will become a haven for Gaelic language speakers who will attend an Irish language conference organized by Glór na nGael in an effort to promote the language in North America and Canada.”

Classes (May 7, 2008)
http://www.irishabroad.com/news/irish-voice/entertainment/Articles/ents-guide070508.aspx

“The Irish Arts Center, 553 West 51st Street in New York, is offering a new spring season of adult classes in Irish language, history, bodhran, fiddle, banjo, Celtic harp, tin whistle, bagpipes, step dancing, set dancing and ceili dancing. Call Sydney at 212-757-3318, ext. 204, or visit www.irishartscenter.org.”

Sinn Fein’s Gerry Adams supports development of Belfast Irish Quarter (May 8, 2008)
http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=297&storycode=3113153&c=1

“Speaking at a regeneration conference today in Birmingham Adams outlined proposals which could see an area between Belfast City Centre and Andersonstown, known as ‘An Ceathrú Gaeltachta’, transformed ‘into a hub for traditional Irish language, culture and business’.”

Richard K Degenhardt Belleek Collectors' Scholarships (May 8, 2008)
http://news.ulster.ac.uk/releases/2008/3769.html

“Colm Duffin, from Randalstown, is a final year Irish language student. He will use his award to stay on Tory Island for two weeks to study the grammatical structures in Donegal Irish and their uses and evolution in the 21st century as a foundation for a proposed PhD in Irish language.”

Devolution anniversary passes off a quiet affair (May 8, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/article3679789.ece

“In a review of the past 12 months, he cited the rejection of the Irish language legislation, ‘thwarting’ of Sinn Fein's campaign to achieve the devolution of policing and justice by this month and defence of academic selection as evidence of improvements over Direct Rule administration.”

Devolution - one year on (May 8, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7388594.stm

“Nationalists and unionists are involved in stand-offs over academic selection, Irish language rights, and the future of the former jail at the Maze.”

Tesco Computer for Schools vouchers available in Tesco's Waterford stores until the 11th May! (May 7, 2008)
http://www.waterford-today.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3019&Itemid=1&ed=287

“Over the past 11 years Tesco has been working closely with schools across the country providing them with over €11 million euro worth of free equipment. Throughout this time, the scheme has been revised yearly after consulting with teachers to ensure that the equipment offered meets the changing needs of Irish students. The range now includes everything from IT equipment and software to art accessories and Irish language teaching aids.”

Club Gaeilge (May 8, 2008)
down the page at http://www.corkman.ie/news/balloon-goes-up-for-carrigoonfestivities-1369661.html
“A local group recently completed an eight week course of conversational gaeilge under the tutelage of well known enthusiast Gerry O'Callaghan at Davis College. So successful was this venture four of those involved decided to continue their efforts to improve their basic knowledge of the language.”

Man with a Wide Screen Vision (May 8, 2008)
http://www.galwayadvertiser.ie/content/index.php?aid=11863

“A former priest’s house in An Spidéal is not the location that immediately springs to mind for a major television and film production company, but that’s exactly where Telegael has been producing award-winning productions over the past 20 years.”

North Tipperary schoolboy Cowen elected Taoiseach (May 9, 2008)
http://www.nenaghguardian.ie/frontpage/north-tipperary-schoolboy-cowen-elected-taoiseach-1371482.html

“Mr Smyth, the current President of the college, revealed that the Offaly man was Captain of the college Irish language debating team and a member of the English debating team.”

Mayo documentary to feature at international film festival (May 9, 2008)
http://www.mayoadvertiser.com/index.php?aid=5903

“The TG4 documentary An Tailliúir Gorm produced by Westport journalist and broadcaster Piaras Ó Raghallaigh in association with Cahill Media is an enchanting insight into the life of residents on the small island of Inis Bigil off the Mayo coast.”

Thursday, May 8, 2008

News halftimeshow through an 7ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Lots of news items out there, so I think a midweek news update is called for. And I am not just procrastinating on my research.
This one again:
Despite peace, Belfast walls are growing in size and number (May 4, 2008)
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j8_HpCFCtant8Bxb6rthBy1BuWqQD90ELNU00

“Wearing the ‘wrong’ sports gear is just one of scores of sectarian measuring sticks that have proven deadly in the past. So are names. A ‘Cein’ — a Gaelic name pronounced Keane — would be instantly identified as Irish Catholic, because the Protestant side shuns the Irish language.”
Also here: In Belfast, walls are best neighbors (May 5, 2008)

Bye bye Bertie - Cowen ushers in a more sober Irish era (May 4, 2008)
http://news.trendaz.com/index.shtml?show=news&newsid=1191361&lang=EN
Just a mention but in case you’re interested:
“Cowen is unlikely to slip up in this fashion, and has even been known to make long, eloquent speeches in the Irish language.”

In the interest of equal time, here’s a Cassidy column, but as always caveat lector:
Paddy Works on the Erie (May 3, 2008)
http://www.counterpunch.org/cassidy05032008.html
“'Paddy Works on the Erie' is one of the most popular and widely known American work songs.”

Davitt College to host its own TV channel (May 6, 2008)
http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4034&Itemid=38

“Schools in Mayo may soon all have their own television channel broadcasting in the school after support was given by Mayo VEC for a pilot programme to take place in Davitt College in Castlebar.
“The television channel, which will be the first of its kind in any Irish school, will broadcast messages on school activities as well as advice on healthy living, anti-bullying and sports reports. Dr Katie Sweeney, CEO of Mayo VEC, told a meeting of the VEC committee last week that the information will be transmitted in a two-way process in Irish.”

PROFILE: Cowen: An admired and respected successor to Ahern (May 6, 2008)
http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/europe/news/article_1403668.php/PROFILE_Cowen_An_admired_and_respected_successor_to_Ahern_401305655_401305649_available

“He also revealed his Irish-language credentials in the chamber shortly after Ahern announced his resignation when opposition Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny, a fluent speaker himself, asked a complicated question in Irish to which Cowen responded in flawless Irish without batting an eye-lid.”

Dave wins Parker award for Irish play (May 6, 2008)
http://www.derryjournal.com/journal/Dave-wins-Parker-award-for.4051215.jp

“Derry-based playwright Dave Duggan scooped a major Irish language literary award at a ceremony in Belfast.
“Mr. Duggan picked up the Irish language award at the BBC’s Stuart Parker Awards ceremony. Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea presented Mr. Duggan with the award for his play, ‘Gruaigairi,’ which enjoyed a successful nationwide tour earlier this year.”

Roslea Fleadh (May 6, 2008)
Down the page on http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/FH/free/330910262111550.php

“Preparations are under way for this years Fleadh which will be held in Roslea....This years Irish language competitions will take place on Sunday morning and schools are asked now to approach the county board for entry sheets.”

A Documentary Film Festival for Donegal's Gaeltacht (May 6, 2008)
http://en.epochtimes.com/news/8-5-6/70316.html

“The festival Guth Gafa translates as 'Captive Voice' aims to promote films made through the Irish language and to promote the use of Gaeilge by operating the festival through the Irish language.”

Day of symbolism at Boyne site (May 6, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7386906.stm

“As they lined up, one of those bedecked in Orange regalia greeted Ahern in the Irish language, who returned the greeting.”

Gaelscoil gets good marks for English (May 7, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/gaelscoil-gets-good-marks-for-english-1368545.html

“A new study challenges the findings on the standard of English among pupils in the school at the heart of the row about Irish language education.”

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Stories from the other side o' the puddle

What can I say, maybe I'm in an odd mood, but these items seemed interesting:
Gaelic words are added to Holyrood logo (April 25, 2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/politics/Gaelic-words-are-added-to.4022299.jp

“The words ‘Pàrlamaid na h-Alba’ are to be added below the Crown and Saltire symbol and the existing title 'The Scottish Parliament' at a cost of £3500.”

Course tackles Gaelic place names (May 5, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/7375178.stm

“A four-week course is offering people advice on how to pronounce Gaelic place names and an explanation of how they reflect the landscape and its wildlife.”

Tributes as peer loses battle with cancer (May 8, 2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Tributes-as-peer-loses-battle.4061289.jp

“She then became a member of the Lords, and was the first peer to pledge the oath of allegiance in Gaelic.”

Going for growth – and helping the Gaelic language to develop (April 11, 2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/opinion/Going-for-growth--and.3972263.jp

“Today, a new centre for cultural and creative industries opens at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the Gaelic college on Skye.”
(Subscription required for full article)

Salmond backs Gaelic as 'true national language' (April 12, 2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/gaelic/Salmond-backs-Gaelic-as-39true.3975466.jp

“Gaelic is a true national language and Scotland must create the economic and cultural opportunities for it to thrive, the First Minister has claimed.”

Teach yourself Gaelic (May 3, 2008)
http://news.scotsman.com/gaelic/Teach-yourself-Gaelic.4000870.jp

“Bochd: poor. Pronounced ‘bock’, it means poor as in financially challenged, feeling down or feeling seriously unwell.”

Soap 'needed' for new Gaelic TV (April 9, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/highlands_and_islands/7336772.stm

“Thought must be given to securing a soap or long-running series for the planned new Gaelic Digital Service (GDS), one of its bosses has said.
“Alan Esslemont, the new head of content at the Gaelic Media Service which would run GDS, said young audiences want comedy and entertainment.”

Saturday, May 3, 2008

News sheaf to an 3ú lá Mí na Bealtaine

Speaker’s Corner: “I should be be fluent in Irish but my ability to speak our native tongue is distinctly average” (April 21, 2008)
http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3914&Itemid=38
“I have to admit that when it comes to Raidió Teleifís Éireann, I’m often at the head of the queue for heaping criticism, so for a change I’m delighted to be able to praise one of their homegrown programmes.
“Des Bishop’s ‘In the Name of the Fada’ has just finished its six-week run on Thursday nights on RTÉ One and along with being highly entertaining, it has also raised some fundamental questions about the current state of the Irish language.”

Nurses furious HSE is making a battle over language allowance (April 23, 2008)
http://www.kerryman.ie/frontpage/nurses-furious-hse-is-making-a-battle-over-language-allowance-1357290.html
“The allowance is worth ?3,500 per annum at the upper end of the grading scale. All nurses proficient in Irish and working in Gaeltacht areas throughout the country have long been in receipt of the allowance, except for the nursing staff at Dingle Hospital.”

Gaelscoileanna forced to turn students away (April 28, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/latest-news/gaelscoileanna-forced-to-turn-students-away-1360885.html
“Gaelscoileanna around the country are turning hundreds of children away, as they do not have the capacity to cope with the volume of applicants.”

GMIT lecturer calls for end of Gaeltacht grants (April 29, 2008)
http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3992&Itemid=38

“An Irish language expert has called on the Department of the Gaeltacht to stop the administration of infrastructure grants exclusively for Gaeltacht regions, as he feels they have not helped promote the Irish language.”

Only a minority of Gaeltacht schools teaching through Irish (April 29, 2008)
http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3993&Itemid=38

“Only eight national schools in the Mayo Gaeltacht are educating their pupils entirely through Irish and support is not being given by the Department for Education to secondary schools who wish to teach through Irish. The figures on the nationals schools were revealed by Art Ó Súilleabháin, Director of the Mayo Education Centre, who was speaking at last week’s conference on the status of the Mayo Gaeltachtaí.”

Irish town wins battle against edict to switch to Gaelic name (April 29, 2008)
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5j6SZhypqJUlAvMCQEAmvUqSN63oA

“The town of Dingle, one of Ireland's best-known tourist destinations, won its battle on Tuesday against a government edict to adopt the Irish language version of its name.”

Gaeltacht Rugby surprises Johnny (April 29, 2008)
http://www.galwaynews.ie/3556-gaeltacht-rugby-surprises-johnny

“The speeches, of course,were all as gaeilge which put me to shame a little because I couldn’t manage anything more than a cupla focal before I had to return to English. I promised them I’d be back for a four-day intensive course in my native tongue in the summer.”

Irish aim to get talking (April 30, 2008)
http://www.oxfordmail.net/news/headlines/display.var.2237846.0.irish_aim_to_get_talking.php
“A new community group is being formed, aimed at keeping the Irish Gaelic language alive and well in Oxford.”

Tongue Twister Town Names in Ireland (April 30, 2008)
http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/4/30/72456/9152/travel/Tongue+Twister+Town+Names+in+Ireland
“There's a hot destination in Ireland that we haven't been to yet, but want to check out: Dingle. Doesn't the name alone make you want to visit this town in County Kerry, in the pretty southwest corner of Ireland? A recent decision could've made it very hard to find Dingle, but there's been a change of heart.”

Town Wins Fight Over Its Name (May 1, 2008)
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/01/world/europe/01briefs-TOWNWINSFIGH_BRF.html?ref=world
“The town of Dingle has won its battle against a government edict to adopt the Irish-language version of its name.”

Adams Supports City's Gaeltacht Quarter (May 1, 2008)
http://www.4ni.co.uk/northern_ireland_news.asp?id=75320

“Groundbreaking plans to drive forward the regeneration of Belfast through the establishment of An Ceathrú Gaeltachta – a dedicated 'Gaeltacht' quarter - are centre stage today (Thursday) as Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams addresses a national regeneration conference.”

Emergency response: the handbook (May 1, 2008)
http://www.mayonews.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4004&Itemid=38

“But there is one thing worth noting in the Irish section – the Taoiseach’s Christian name as Gaeilge is Parthalán, who according to legend, was the first man in Ireland after the biblical flood. Who better, then, to lead us through a national emergency? Pity he’s retiring next week.”

Walls growing in size and number (May 2, 2008)
http://www.pr-inside.com/walls-growing-in-size-and-number-r568490.htm

“Wearing the wrong sports gear is just one of scores of sectarian measuring sticks that have proven deadly in the past. So are names. A ‘Cein’ - a Gaelic name pronounced Keane - would be instantly identified as Irish Catholic, because the Protestant side shuns the Irish language.”
Also at Peace in Belfast measured by the walls

Conradh na Gaeilge seeks Irish speaking replacement for Zaidan (May 2, 2008)
http://www.highlandradio.com/news.php?articleid=000002039

“Conradh na Gaeilge is calling for reassurances from the government that Judge Desmond Zaidan's successor in Donegal will be a fluent irish speaker.”

Glor na nGael Tipp and Galway to clash again (May 2, 2008)
http://www.nenaghguardian.ie/sport/other-sports/glor-na-ngael-tipp-and-galway-to-clash-again-1365228.html
“Just over two weeks after Tipperary and Galway played out a cracking National Hurling League decider, the sides will meet again in Nenagh on Monday evening (throw-in at 7pm). The tournament game is in aid of the local branch of the Glor na nGael organisation who promote the Irish language in the Nenagh area, particularly through the Gaelscoil.”

Blog Digest: Hilary NY (May 3, 2008)
http://www.siliconrepublic.com/news/news.nv?storyid=single10903

“Before you wonder why I am plugging a certain US presidential candidate, I must explain that this is actually an Irish language blog run by Hilary Mhic Suibhne, Irish language teacher and New York resident.”