Saturday, June 28, 2008

News to an 28ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

Remembering the Irish Famine (June 25, 2008)
http://en.epochtimes.com/news/8-6-25/72450.html
One mention:

“The famine not only decimated the population, the Irish language which had been up until then been the national language was reduced to a small percentage of the people and the Irish wolfhound famous in Irish folklore, a dog as big as a small pony and native only to Ireland became nearly extinct.”

Lisa Hannigan spreads her wings with solo concert at Campbell’s Tavern (June 26, 2008)
http://www.galwayadvertiser.ie/content/index.php?aid=12566

...“Hannigan also has a passion for the Irish language and in 2006 covered the Mary Janes/Mic Christopher song ‘Banríon mo Chroí’ for the Ceol 06 album as part of Seachtain Na Gaeilge.”

First Irish language pre-school facility for Cookstown (June 26, 2008)
http://www.midulstermail.co.uk/news/First-Irish-language-preschool-facility.4222651.jp

“Cookstown welcomes its first Irish medium pre-school provider to the town this September.”

Oh, for a honeymoon (June 26, 2008)
http://www.economist.com/world/britain/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11637413

...“Gregory Campbell, a Westminster MP, is now Stormont’s minister for culture, arts and leisure—putting him in charge of the Irish language (and Ulster Scots) and grants to Protestant marching groups. He has in the past attacked equality and anti-discrimination legislation, the purpose of which, he insists, is to disadvantage Protestants. Sammy Wilson, another Westminster MP, is minister for the environment. Popular within his own party for dubbing Irish ‘leprechaun language’, he marked his appointment by questioning the link between carbon-dioxide emissions and climate change.”

It's panto time for schools (June 26, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/SC/free/354278768694356.php

...“This Thursday and Friday night, June 26th and 27th, Gaelscoil Uí Dhochartaigh is set to become the first school or drama group to ever to grace a professional stage within Strabane and perform a full show in the native Irish language.”

Irish Language TV Scripts Sought For SÍOL (June 26, 2008)
http://www.iftn.ie/finance/?act1=record&only=1&aid=73&rid=4281317&tpl=archnews&force=1

“Gréasán na Meán are seeking talented Irish language writers to submit TV scripts for SÍOL, a new development initiative that will see six writers develop a script to be broadcast as a part of a drama series on TG4.”

Letters: Let's see more Irish on road signs (June 27, 2008)
http://www.herald.ie/opinion/letters/lets-see-more-irish-on-road-signs-1422089.html

“This issue may not be the sexiest in the country but currently the potential radical growth of the Irish language is under threat.”

Campaí samhraidh Gaeilge 2008 (June 27, 2008)
http://www.mayoadvertiser.com/index.php?aid=6397

“Tá Togra Mhaigh Eo de Chonradh na Gaeilge, Caisleán an Bharraigh lonaithe ar Shráid Ellison í gCaisleán an Bharraigh. Sé an príomh aidhm atá ag Togra Mhaigh Eo de Chonradh na Gaeilge ná an Ghaeilge a chur chun cinn ar fud an chondae trí ranganna Gaeilge, campaí samhraidh, diploma sa Ghaeilge, srl, a chur ar fáil do dhaoine í gCondae Mhaigh Eo.”
...“Togra Mhaigh Eo de Chonradh na Gaeilge Castlebar are organising Irish summer camps during the summer months. Togra Mhaigh Eo is located on Ellison Street, Castlebar. The group’s main aim is to promote the Irish language throughout the county in different ways. It also runs Irish classes for adults, workshops, third level courses, leaving and junior cert classes and many more.”

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

News through an 25ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

Roy Keane and Ken Loach backing Irish language (June 21, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article3822530.ece

“Footballer Roy Keane, actor Jeremy Irons and film director Ken Loach are among a group of dignatories showing support for the Irish language.”

Software for the modern school environment (June 22, 2008)
http://www.sbpost.ie/post/pages/p/story.aspx-qqqt=People+In+Business-qqqm=nav-qqqid=33859-qqqx=1.asp

“A student work placement with a software firm ultimately led Kristian O’Donovan to set up his own software business, making interactive products for primary schools.
“O’Donovan’s company, Flúirse, started trading in February 2006.Now it has a range of products for teachers, parents and pupils, as well as a division running training courses.”

Letters: Misguided support for the Irish language (June 23, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/letters/article3826791.ece

“The announcement from Gerry Adams that he secured £6m funding for Irish language broadcasting by the 'Downing Street back-door' has raised important equality concerns for unionists.”

Students scramble for luxury city pad (June 23, 2008)
http://www.herald.ie/national-news/city-news/students-scramble-for-luxury-city-pad-1419157.html

“A Dublin College is launching the first ever mini-gaeltacht for a select bunch of Irish speaking students.”

Nemeton announce TG4 soccer coverage (June 23, 2008)
http://www.eleven-a-side.com/braywanderers/news.asp?n=32865

“Nemeton, the producers of live eircom League of Ireland soccer coverage on Irish language channel TG4, have announced four Premier Division fixtures to be screened in July and August.”

Friday, June 20, 2008

News to an 20ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

Global Indigenous TV Network Inaugural Meeting (June 18, 2008)
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU0806/S00163.htm

“A global network of indigenous television broadcasters will convene its first interim council meeting in Ireland in August.
“The development of an international alliance was a major outcome of the World Indigenous Television Broadcasting Conference – WITBC ’08 – hosted by New Zealand’s national indigenous broadcaster, Maori Television, in Auckland in March this year.”

Historic Dublin property sale (June 18, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/historic-dublin-property-sale-1413383.html

“Conradh na Gaeilge, the Irish language organisation, is selling its Harcourt Street offices and club with a price tag of €5m.”

Opinion: Primary pupils have the write stuff -- as gaeilge (June 18, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/features/in-my-opinion-primary-pupils-have-the-write-stuff---as-gaeilge-1413399.html

“The importance of cultivating readers and writers from a young age has long since been recognised. With this in mind, Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge, together with An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta, began looking at ways to encourage both reading and writing in the Irish language at an early age.”

Fury over PM's £6m for Irish language (June 18, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/Fury-over-PM39s-6m-for.4194932.jp

“Anger erupted last night as it emerged that the Prime Minister has pledged £6 million to secure the future of Irish language broadcasting in Northern Ireland.”

Minister opens Irish medium schools in Lisnaskea (June 18, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/fh/free/350491572747217.php

“Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, yesterday opened the latest Irish medium school, Bunscoil an Traonaigh in Lisnaskea.”

Co Fermargh home to newest Irish language school (June 18, 2008)
http://www.atl.org.uk/atl_en/news/education/Default.asp?article=%7B91CBE0C8-3376-4EE9-B4B1-9963E922A934%7D&month=&year=&category=

“Lisnaskea in County Fermargh has become home to the latest Irish language school.
“Bunscoil an Traonaigh joins Naiscoil an Traonaigh as the only two nursery and primary schools in the area that employ the Irish language.”

Irish Arts, Take Two (June 18, 2008)
http://www.free-times.com/index.php?cat=11001804073474158&ShowArticle_ID=11011806084118416

...“One of the most highly anticipated events of the weekend is the Irish Gaelic workshop hosted by linguist Finnbarr Dunphy.”

Soothing Sounds from Anuna’s Gill (June 18, 2008)
http://www.irishabroad.com/news/irish-voice/entertainment/Articles/anuna-gill180608.aspx

...“I started off as a classic musician, singing Mozart. When I was older I discovered the depth of Irish language singing. It’s a vocal, expressive language full of vowels that makes it such a pleasure to sing. I think that is the reason I am drawn to it. I still love classical music, but it’s not what I prefer to sing anymore.”

Ó Céilleachair Named Muskerry Filmmaker in Residence (June 18, 2008)
http://www.iftn.ie/?act1=record&only=1&aid=73&rid=4281294&tpl=archnews

...“The residency will also see the filmmaker research his feature documentary ‘Amhrán an tSuláin’ (Sullane Song), set to shoot in Muskerry later this year.”

Brid’s passion for the gaeilge pays off with Vodafone award (June 19, 2008)
http://www.galwayadvertiser.ie/content/index.php?aid=12432

“Bríd Ní Chonghóile, Ardfheidhmeannach Ghaillimh le Gaeilge in Galway City has been awarded a Vodafone Passion for the World Around us award for her dedication to promoting the Irish language in Galway city.”

Slán leis an Máistir: popular Gaelscoil principal retires (June 19, 2008)
http://www.kilkennyadvertiser.ie/index.php?aid=9828

“Celebrations are the order of the day over the coming fortnight to mark the retirement of An Máistir, Mícheál Ó Máirtín as Gaelscoil Osrai prepares itself for the end of an era.”

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

News to an 18ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

Potomac Celtic Fest Brings Culture From Across The Pond (June 13, 2008)
http://www.leesburg2day.com/articles/2008/06/13/entertainment/cal908mprkpotcltcfest061308.txt

“Morven Park continues to stay busy, hosting the 15th Anniversary Potomac Celtic Festival from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 14. The festival celebrates the cultures of all the Celtic nations, including Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Cornwall, The Isle of Man, Brittany and Asturias.”

Civil service 'Irish bias' claim (June 13, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7453109.stm

“The chairman of Irish broadcaster TG4, has accused senior NI civil servants of bias against the Irish language.”

Old tensions resurfacing in ‘dire’ Stormont atmosphere (June 15, 2008)
http://www.sbpost.ie/post/pages/p/story.aspx-qqqt=TOM+MCGURK-qqqs=commentandanalysis-qqqid=33676-qqqx=1.asp

...“And perhaps most revealing of all is the DUP opposition to the Irish Language Bill. It is a measure of the DUP’s 17th century mentality that they should continue to oppose the growing Gaelscoil movement in the North. For some sad reason, the Irish language has always been anathema to them.”

Blame game points finger at poor posters (June 16, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/blame-game-points-finger-at-poor-posters-1410953.html

...“He also tore into the decision to print large numbers of Fianna Fail posters in Irish, but declined to be identified.
...“But Dublin South Central TD Michael Mulcahy said: ‘There is nothing wrong with Irish. A lot of people love Irish. If we didn't have them in Irish, we would be criticised.’”

Official opening of Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach (June 17, 2008)
http://www.antrimtimes.co.uk/news/Official-opening-of-Gaelscoil-Ghleann.4189621.jp

“Education Minister Caitríona Ruane visited the borough last week to officially open Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach in Crumlin.”

Brown pledges £6m for Irish language (June 17, 2008)
http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0617/northpolitics.html

“British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has pledged £6m to secure the future of Irish language broadcasting in Northern Ireland.”
See also:
£6m 'promised to Irish language' (June 17, 2008)
SF 'wins concession on Irish language funding' (June 17, 2008)
Irish language to get £6.2m funding (June 17, 2008)
UK pledges €7.6m to Irish language – SF (June 17, 2008)


Irish Fest Summer School moves to new location (June 17, 2008)
http://www.livinglakecountry.com/UserStory?id=220

...“From this year’s new location at Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), all who crave the luck of the Irish can learn Irish proverbs and blessings in a beginning language class, discover traditional carving in a hands-on workshop or practice music and dance skills in a selection of courses as rich as Ireland’s history.”

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Your Irish phrase, an 14ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

amach 'is amach -- "completely," "extremely"
as in
Tá mé as mo mheabhair, amach 'is amach.

Friday, June 13, 2008

News through an 12ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

RTÉ International: It’s coming soon! (June 4, 2008)
http://www.irishpost.com/news/story/?trs=qlojidoj&cat=news

“Irish TV service for Britain is to be called RTÉ International, The Irish Post can reveal.
...“Details of the new service released so far indicate that the channel will be a hybrid of RTÉ One and RTÉ Two with some additional programming from TG4.”

A bheil Gaidhlig agaibh? Scottish singer Julie Fowlis to play the Galway Sessions (June 8, 2008)
http://www.galwayfirst.ie/content/view/3066/1017/

...“When Julie takes to the stage with Róisín Elsafty, both will sing in Gaelic - Julie in Gaidhlig and Róisín as Gaeilge. What are the differences and similarities between the two singing styles?”

Summer school pupils opt to fly in (June 8, 2008)
http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5jqwvfyrdwAIoVSpLWbBbxXAAkBAg

“School children taking the traditional summer trip to the Irish college are increasingly opting to fly to the Gaeltacht.”

Opinion: Let's teach pupils about real life (June 8, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/lets-teach-pupils-about-real-life-1401851.html
One item:

...“Equally, I'm mortified to admit that my fluency in Irish has deteriorated to the point where an Nuacht might as well be in Lithuanian for all I can understand of it. Maybe I would fare better if more emphasis had been placed on conversational Gaeilge, rather than the months spent on the autobiography of Peig Sayers, whose tales of hardship and wretched deprivation couldn't rival the misery inflicted on the millions of teenagers who had to suffer her over the years.”

Stormont feelgood magazine binned as parties wrangle (June 9, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article3782924.ece

...“But sources say it was withdrawn because the Sinn Fein and DUP disagreed — allegedly about the use of the Irish language.”

Sinn Fein attacked over 'brinkmanship' (June 9, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/politics/Sinn-Fein-attacked-over-39brinkmanship39.4164583.jp

...“‘The DUP is pleased to have binned an Irish Language Act: we have negotiated a veto on devolution of Policing and Justice and we will use it on behalf our community until they are confident enough to allow devolution of these powers to take place. The last seven days have changed nothing.’”

Abolishing Irish rule 'won't close gender gap' in teaching (June 9, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/abolishing-irish-rule-wont-close-gender-gap-in-teaching-1402416.html

“A new report has found that the abolition of the honours Irish requirement will not entice more men to become primary school teachers.”

Sult's Seisiún an tSamhraidh (June 9, 2008)
http://www.dublinks.com/index.cfm/loc/12/pt/0/spid/6DE43D80-E33A-66D7-85B88D98230EBABD.htm

“On Friday 13th June, enjoy the first Sult of the summer with a fantastic 'Seisiún an tSamhraidh' courtesy of Dublin's top Irish-language club night!”

Campbell named as Northern Irish culture minister (June 10, 2008)
http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/20963/campbell-named-as-northern-irish-culture

...“Campbell replaces his DUP colleague Edwin Poots whose year in office saw record amounts of spending on the arts in the region but found him mired in controversy over the appropriate site for a new national football stadium and a proposed Irish Language Act.”

Education Minister to open Irish medium schools in Lisnaskea (June 10, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/FH/free/347207619280357.php

“The Education Minister, Caitriona Ruane, who is a fluent Irish speaker, is due in Lisnaskea next Tuesday, 17th June to officially open two Irish medium schools on the edge of the town, at Drumbroughas North just off the Maguiresbridge Road.”

New Irish language school opened (June 11, 2008)
http://www.atl.org.uk/atl_en/news/education/Default.asp?article=%7B53328C6C-3586-4CED-A813-D52C13C5E84D%7D&month=&year=&category=

“A new Irish language school has been opened in Northern Ireland, winning praise from education minister Caitriona Ruane.
“Children attending Gaelscoil Eanna in Glengormley will be able to develop bilingual skills.”
Also see: http://www.newtownabbeytoday.co.uk/news/MINISTER-OPENS-GLENGORMLEYS-IRISH-MEDIUM.4175837.jp

New Irish signs up (June 11, 2008)
http://www.ballymoneytimes.co.uk/news/NEW-IRISH-SIGNS-UP.4174673.jp

“History has been made with the first ever bilingual street name signs featuring Irish going up in parts of Ballymoney Borough in recent days ... and Sinn Fein want more.”

Duo win scholarship lotto (June 11, 2008)
http://www.carlowpeople.ie/news/duo-win-scholarship-lotto-1407067.html

“Two young sportsmen will get to practice their Gaeilge after winning a scholarship to the Gaelteacht. Aaron O'Brick, from Rathvilly and David O'Neill from the Carlow Hurling Club will this summer be headin off to the Irish speaking area after they were picked in a lotto organised by Coiste na nOg.”

Imeall Tra Teo prepare for launch of new Language and Cultural Centre (June 12, 2008)
http://www.ballymoneytimes.co.uk/news/Imeal-Tra-Teo-prepare-for.4178924.jp

...“Over the past two years Imeall Trá Teo has been instrumental in promoting a wide range of cultural activity within N.Antrim and the Donegal Gaeltacht. Funding has been provided for events such as Irish and Ulster Scots language classes, youth exchanges , community festivals, Childrens Summer schemes , shinty exchanges , hill-walking training and cross-community musical gatherings.”

Strabane schools prepare to take to the Alley stage (June 12, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/SC/free/347752475954609.php

...“Meanwhile, Gaelscoil Uí Dhochartaigh presents (Jack and the Beanstalk) at the Alley!
“The school is set to become the first school or drama group to ever to grace a professional stage within Strabane and perform a full show in the native Irish language, a tremendous achievement for this Irish speaking school which has grown from humble origins to becoming one of the leading educational establishments within Northern Ireland in the Irish medium.”

Gaelgóir Bishop keeps 'em chuckling at The Mermaid (June 12, 2008)
http://www.braypeople.ie/news/gaelgoacuteir-bishop-keeps-em-chuckling-at-the-mermaid-1406976.html

“Des Bishop has his qualms about having become the poster boy for the Irish language, but not many of them. With the success of his show In The name of the Fada' still ringing in his ears, the Irish-American comic is a little startled by the effect his year in the Gaeltacht learning an teanga náisiœnta has had upon Irish teachers across the land.”

Network to Promote Linguistic Diversity launched (June 12, 2008)
http://www.cornwall24.co.uk/index.php?module=pnForum&func=viewtopic&topic=3640&start=0

“The Network (NPLD) was established at the end 2007 with the aim of facilitating the sharing of existing best practice and the development of new and innovative ideas in the field of language planning in all linguistic domains amongst Europe’s less widely used languages.”

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Testing season 2008

I must admit, I'm kind of fascinated by these tests.
Nod to Homer welcomed in student-friendly test (June 6, 2008)

http://www.independent.ie/national-news/nod-to-homer-welcomed-in-studentfriendly-test-1399582.html

“Popular figures such as the Simpsons, Kirsten Dunst and Tom Crean dotted the Junior Certificate Irish papers yesterday afternoon and, in general, both papers appeared to be student-friendly.
“The aural exam met with approval also, even if one topic, the film 'Cre na Cille' was found to be a little morbid for some students.”

'Awkward' poetry fails to win over any friends (June 7, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/awkward-poetry-fails-to-win-over-any-friends-1401298.html

“The poetry section in the Junior Cert Irish Higher Level Paper II didn't go down too well with the students, and the glossary made available yesterday was of little help. One teacher described it as 'ciotach', or awkward.”

'Topical but challenging' options get the thumbs up for fairness (June 10, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/latest-news/topical-but-challenging-options-get-the-thumbs-up-for-fairness-1403704.html

“The theme of fair trade raised its head in yet another paper in this year's exams, and this time it was asked ‘as gaeilge’.”

Student-friendly paper passes the test (June 11, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/latest-news/studentfriendly-paper-passes-the-test-1404942.html

“There was a great sense of relief and few, if any, complaints after the Ordinary Level Leaving Cert Irish Paper II yesterday. Many students declared they would have nothing more to do with the language.”

O Searcaigh conspicuous by absence from poetry (June 11, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/o-searcaigh-conspicuous-by-absence-from-poetry-1404941.html

“As was widely predicted, the controversial poet Cathal O Searcaigh did not appear on either the Higher or Ordinary Level Leaving Cert Irish Paper II yesterday.”

Extra marks as Gaeilge in Arabic and Russian (June 11, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/extra-marks-as-gaeilge-in-arabic-and-russian-1404939.html

“More than 250 students took Russian in the Leaving yesterday.
“Virtually all of them were native Russian speakers who had moved to Ireland in recent years.
“But if they had the cupla focal as well, they could have received bonus marks for answering part of their paper in Irish.”

A few articles from previous years:

Not easy grappling with R2D2 as Gaeilge (June 9, 2006)
Sentences are shorter but the questions tough (June 9, 2006)
Watching lots of television would have been great preparation for this test (June 10, 2006)
Paper 'very fair for the most part' but tears still shed (June 10, 2006)
The question that has no answer (June 8, 2007)
Stymied by those old-time sayings (June 8, 2007)

Saturday, June 7, 2008

News through an 7ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

2008 Top 50 Business as Gaeilge Awards (May 23, 2008)
http://www.irish.ie/foras/news/article.asp?id=204

“Lá Nua, today announced the recipients of the Top 50 Business as Gaeilge Awards sponsored by Foras na Gaeilge and Accenture at a reception attended by TG4 presenter Páidi Ó Lionaird and Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny T.D., at the Four Seasons, Dublin.”

Power-sharing agreement reached in N.Ireland (June 4, 2008)
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5izxbJ2beBWcjjQtCp2chgk1Tv7rQ

...“Also on the agenda are ‘continuing concerns around paramilitary organisations, parades, sites, the Irish language and education, and the putting in place of a process to deal with’ all those issues.”

More talks at Downing Street in a bid to mend divisions (June 5, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/article3766956.ece

“The tentative talks in London are expected to focus on the controversial transfer of policing and justice powers to the Assembly, with the government attempting to hammer out a timetable for the switch. And there are indications the government may proceed with an Irish language act through Westminster.”

Last chance to see Des Bishop at An Grianan (June 5, 2008)
http://www.nwipp-newspapers.com/SC/free/344473631837522.php

“Des Bishop returns to An Grianán Theatre for one night only with his current hit stand up show 'Tongues'.”

This Limerick Life..with Aoife Ni-Ghlaicin-Riain, actress and journalism student (June 5, 2008)
http://www.limerickleader.ie/features/This-Limerick-Lifewith-Aoife-NiGhlaicinRiain.4157831.jp

“As well as harbouring ambitions to be a journalist, a marked increase in the use of our native tongue has seen Aoife tour with the Irish language theatre group Aisteoiri Dramaiochta Bulfinn in her spare time.”

Buncrana kids get creative (June 6, 2008)
http://www.derryjournal.com/inishowen/Buncrana-kids-get-creative.4158417.jp

“Buncrana bookworms were given a taste of fame when they composed, designed and published their very own books in Irish.”

Mervue Boys’ school launch their own book (June 6, 2008)
http://www.galwayadvertiser.ie/content/index.php?aid=12223

...“This year, each school selected seven legends, and the pupils have illustrated them in a book which was launched in St Michael’s School by Eamon Ó Cuiv, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. These legends have been translated into Irish, English, French, and Portuguese.”

Did you hear the one about the Bishop? (June 6, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/entertainment/film-tv/news/article3776080.ece

“Irish-American comic Des Bishop is a household name in the Republic for his hilarious TV shows and live stand-up. Ahead of a Belfast show, he tells Grainne McCarry that difficult experiences early in life — like emigrating and giving up alcohol — turned him into the kind of person who wants to bring joy and laughter into deprived communities, including Mount Vernon in Belfast.”

Northern Ireland leaders hold talks with Prime Minister Gordon Brown in London (June 6, 2008)
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/06/06/europe/EU-GEN-Britain-NIreland.php

“First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy leader Martin McGuinness met Brown to discuss contentious issues including the devolution of the police and justice systems, education and the use of the Irish language.”

'Uncle Sam' makes splash on cross-party city canvass (June 6, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/uncle-sam-makes-splash-on-crossparty-city-canvass-1399598.html

“In a calculated move, making the presumption that a member of a republican breakaway group would have the ‘cupla focal’, Enda moved from the comforts of his party handlers and canvassers, to disarm Uncle Sam with his lyrical Irish.
“‘Come over here to me and tell me where you're from. You're very welcome here,’ said Enda as Gaeilge.
“Uncle Sam was stumped. Enda moved on, and Eamon and Barry followed his lead down Henry Street.”

Top comedian Des Bishop gearing up for Royal Theatre show (June 6, 2008)
http://news.google.ie/nwshp?q=Gaeilge&ie=UTF-8&scoring=n

“Having spent the past 12 months in intense study and immersion in Connemara's Gaeltact in an effort to speak as Gaeilge, Des Bishop is back on the road again.”

Sile Seoige to Co-Present ‘Paisean Faisean’ (June 6, 2008)
http://www.iftn.ie/?act1=record&only=1&aid=73&rid=4281262&tpl=archnews

“Sile Seoige has been revealed as the new co-presenter of TG4’s fashion dating show ‘Paisean Faisean’, with series five set to begin filming on Monday June 16th.”

Cœrsa Samhraidh in Nenagh (June 6, 2008)
http://www.nenaghguardian.ie/news/coeligrsa-samhraidh-in-nenagh-nenagh-notes-1400738.html

“The Cœrsa Samhraidh is a Summer Camp that aims to develop an appreciation of aesthetic activities including art, music, dance, drama, language and sport trí Ghaeilge. The twenty second annual Cœrsa Samhraidh will commence on Monday 30th of June for two weeks ending on July 11th.”

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

And now the news for wombats-- er, Welsh

‘Welsh should be an official EU language’ (Jun 4 2008)
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2008/06/04/welsh-should-be-an-official-eu-language-55578-21019475/

“Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans appealed yesterday for the use of Welsh in the European parliament.
“Ms Evans, who is campaigning for Welsh to be given official status in the EU, also called on public bodies in Wales to lobby the parliament for the right of citizens to communicate with the institution in their own language.”
...
But Labour MEP Eluned Morgan questioned the cost of such a move, pointing out that the use of the Irish language in the European parliament costs £532,400.
Ms Morgan said: 'I would rather see the money it would cost invested in promoting use of the language at the grassroots – in ensuring there are Welsh-language nurseries in our towns and villages or that people who want to learn the language are able to do so. After all, ensuring a language is used every day by its people is the very best way to secure its future.'”

News through an 4ú lá Mí an Mheithimh

Is Sinn Fein playing call my bluff? (June 2, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7432152.stm
...“It also wants to safeguard the future of the Maze site, its education reform proposals and the future of the Irish language.
“At St Andrews the government promised an Irish language act, which the DUP promptly scrapped.”

Robinson in job for day and already facing a crisis (June 2, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/article3758477.ece
...“The Belfast Telegraph revealed on Saturday that Sinn Fein was considering the move because of discontent over what it sees as DUP intransigence on a number of issues like policing and justice, the Irish Language Bill and education.”

Tough decisions ahead for a man aiming to deliver (June 2, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/article3758479.ece
...“Sinn Fein remains determined to secure an Irish Language Act, but there are no indications that the DUP is going to yield on that one.”

Brown meets Adams amid fears for devolved government (June 3, 2008)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2008/jun/03/northernireland.gerryadams

...“In a statement which could be read more than one way - but which contained no threats - Adams said there were commitments in St Andrews which had to be honoured, including the transfer of policing and justice, and an Irish Language act.”

Wilson slams Ruane's funds for Irish school (June 3, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/Wilson-slams-Ruanes-funds-for.4143809.jp
“Education Minister Caitriona Ruane has been accused of ‘showing her true colours’ by funding a small Irish language school, against advice, when similar schools nearby have struggled to fill all their places.”

Viewpoint: Ruane's reputation takes a battering (June 4, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/opinion/article3763712.ece
“Education Minister Caitriona Ruane attracts bad publicity the way a light attracts moths. And much of the controversy in which she finds herself embroiled is of her own making.”

Sinn Fein 'stepping back from the brink' (June 4, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/Sinn-Fein-stepping-back-from.4148003.jp
...“Republicans were demanding DUP commitments on policing and justice and an Irish language act – if they were to re-nominate Martin McGuinness as Deputy First Minister tomorrow.
“But there appeared to be a pulling back from the brink, in the wake of separate meetings yesterday between Prime Minister Gordon Brown and both Gerry Adams and DUP leader Peter Robinson.”

Sideline View . . . with Martin Kiely (June 4, 2008)
http://www.limerickleader.ie/farmleader/Sideline-View---.4150828.jp
One item:
“Very shortly students will travel to various Gaeltacht areas in pursuit of furthering their education as 'as Gaeilge'. In this regard, the GAA provide a huge level of grants throughout the country each year, however, three clubs from West Limerick have been in contact with me to express their disappointment in the distribution of the grants in that division. Grants such as these should be very transparent in their allocation to avoid any questions arising in regard to who benefits and who doesn't.”

Monday, June 2, 2008

John Tierney, 73, of Oakwood, Staten Island

http://www.app.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080601/OBITUARIES/806010378
June 1, 2008
.....JOHN TIERNEY, 73, of Oakwood, Staten Island, formerly of SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS, who emigrated from Ireland and worked in finance for more than 30 years, died Wednesday, May 28, at Carmel Richmond Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Grasmere, of complications of brain cancer. Born in Hollymount, County Mayo, Ireland, he attended the Irish Christian Brothers High School there. Mr. Tierney spent two years in England, then moved to Brooklyn when he was 20 years old. It was there he met Helen Casey, who would become his wife of 42 years. He settled in Oakwood in 1969. Mr. Tierney graduated from St. John's University with a bachelor's degree in finance. He worked as a senior vice president in foreign investments for the former Fiduciary Trust Co. in Manhattan, now known as Franklin Resources Inc., for about 30 years. After leaving Fiduciary, he became a senior vice president for Horizon Bank and Trust Co. in Morristown. His lineage was a source of great pride. He never tired of listening to his Irish CDs and acted almost as a tour guide when he and his wife traveled throughout Ireland. Along with traveling, Mr. Tierney enjoyed gardening and attending Irish step dancing lessons with his wife. He also enjoyed riding his bike and walking in Great Kills Park and on the boardwalk in Spring Lake. He desired that his children and grandchildren be polite and well-educated, and he was exceedingly proud of their accomplishments. When they were very young, he took each of his children to Ireland, one at a time, to meet their grandmother and show them the beautiful countryside. Mr. Tierney loved the outdoors and took his family on many camping trips to upstate New York and Pennsylvania. He was a member of the North American Association of Celtic Language Teachers and Daltai Na Gaeilge (Students of the Irish Language). He also had been a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Mr. Tierney was a parishioner of St. Charles Roman Catholic Church, Oakwood, where he served as an usher.
.....His son firefighter John Patrick Tierney died at the World Center Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Along with his wife, Helen, surviving are his son Thomas; his two daughters, Mary DiGiacomo and Jeanne Neumeyer; and seven grandchildren.
.....The wake will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. today at Colonial Funeral Home, New Dorp, Staten Island. A Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:15 a.m. Monday at St. Charles Church, Penn Avenue, Staten Island. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery, West Brighton.

News array to an 2a lá Mí an Mheithimh

Increasing numbers of students turn backs on Irish (May 30, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/education/latest-news/increasing-numbers-of-students-turn-backs-on-irish-1391786.html

...“The proportion of Leaving Certificate students taking Gaeilge as a subject this year has dropped to 85.5pc, from 86.4pc last year.”

Robinson takeover under threat (May 31, 2008)
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/article3753231.ece

...“However, a highly-placed Sinn Fein source has told the Belfast Telegraph that because of the party's frustration over issues such as policing and justice it could force a stand-off and even an election by refusing to put Mr McGuinness forward next week to be signed in alongside Mr Robinson.
“The source said: ‘We are being vetoed at every turn. The British Government promised us the transfer of policing and justice in May, Culture Minister Edwin Poots has blocked the Irish Language Bill, and DUP have refused to even negotiate on Caitriona Ruane's education proposals.
“‘It's a progression of Ian Paisley's 'never-never' attitude. It's one-party rule and we can't go on like this indefinitely.’"

New GAA logo to retain sense of heritage (June 1, 2008)
http://www.sbpost.ie/post/pages/p/story.aspx-qqqt=MEDIA+AND+MARKETING-qqqs=mediaandmarketing-qqqid=33314-qqqx=1.asp

...“Brand Union felt that keeping the High Cross symbolism and Irish language in the logo was important and described the new imagery as ‘not redefined, but refined for our times’.”

It's roses and rugby for our couch potatoes (June 1, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/its-roses-and-rugby-for-our-couch-potatoes-1393683.html

...“The fourth terrestrial channel, TG4, has still not been able to get its share past a ceiling that it reached soon after its launch, and is watched by fewer citizens of the Republic than tune into BBC2 here.”

The weird and wacky celebrity sales on eBay.ie (June 2, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/the-weird-and--wacky-celebrity--sales-on-ebayie-1394328.html

...“Irish language drama Ros na Run auctioned a walk-on part in the soap, raising €270 for charity.”

What the papers say (June 2, 2008)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7430686.stm

...“It reports that Caitríona Ruane approved a new Irish language primary school ‘against the wishes of senior advisers and inspectors’.
“The school in question is in Londonderry. The Irish News says the education minister was warned that financing it would damage the city's existing Irish language schools where there are empty desks.”

Robinson's olive branch to UUP (June 2, 2008)
http://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/Robinsons-olive-branch-to-UUP.4140518.jp

...“He dismissed speculation that Sinn Fein would not re-nominate Martin McGuinness as Deputy First Minister – and therefore pull down the joint Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister – because of anger that the DUP is blocking on issues like the Irish language, Maze shrine, devolution of policing and justice and scrapping academic selection.”