Council Launches New Irish Language Training Resource

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched a new Irish language training resource and associated online materials to support local government officers who wish to learn Irish and use it in their day-to-day work.

The initiative was commissioned by the Council’s Irish Language Unit in partnership with the Council’s Learning and Development team, which is responsible for the corporate development of skills and training opportunities for Council staff.  The booklet was produced in collaboration with Ulster University, building on successful cooperation on Irish language training courses in recent years.

Among those who attended the launch were staff who have undertaken Irish language courses within the Council in recent years, members of senior management, and the Irish Language Commissioner, Pól Deeds.

It is hoped that the new resource will help develop a practical and consistent approach to Irish language training, capacity building and the use of Irish across the public sector.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Corporate Services Director Aileen Jones said, “We are delighted to launch this booklet and the associated online materials. They will help the Council continue its work to create a Professional Development Pathway for employees, as agreed in the Council’s Irish Language Strategy. This booklet is an important part of our commitment to bilingualism and to promoting the use of Irish within our organisation.

“The Council is committed to creating opportunities for learning, inclusion and personal development across the workforce. This new resource is a practical and accessible tool that will support staff who wish to learn Irish and build confidence in using the language as part of their everyday work.”

Dr Gearóid Ó Domagáin, Ulster University said: “We are very pleased to collaborate with local government on this important work. This initiative is about making a positive impact and a real difference at local level. We hope it will be a foundation stone for further development of Irish language training and capacity building within local government and other public bodies.”

Irish Language Commissioner Pól Deeds said: “I am very impressed by the proactive work that has been done to develop resources of this kind. I commend Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for this work and for promoting good practice. I believe this initiative can make a very positive impact, and I would encourage all public bodies to reflect on this approach.”

The new resource will contribute to the Council’s ongoing efforts to develop Irish language skills among staff and to foster a supportive environment for bilingual services, communication and engagement.