Two Limerick schools celebrated for promoting the Irish language

STUDENTS from Limerick had a lot to celebrate as they were recognised at the annual Gaelbhratach presentation ceremony.

A total of 154 students from 18 primary schools, including Nicker National School and Scoil Náisiúnta na Banóige, were applauded for their exceptional efforts in promoting the Irish language.

The Gaelbhratach team, who organised the initiative, expressed their delight in acknowledging the remarkable work done by these young students throughout the year, and as a token of recognition, each school received a Gaelbhratach flag, symbolizing their commitment and achievements.

The ceremony itself, held at the Tullamore Court Hotel, was filled with lively activities such as bouncy castles, céilí dancing, and, of course, the use of Irish.

Local celebrity Niamh Ní Chróinín, known for her role as a presenter on TG4 and Cúla4, had the privilege of presenting the Gaelbhratach flags to the deserving students. Ní Chróinín expressed her excitement at being part of the event and lauded the schools for their evident passion and dedication to the Irish language. She encouraged the young learners to take immense pride in their accomplishments.

Mairéad, the manager of the Gaelbhratach initiative, took the stage to express her admiration for the students' inspiring efforts. She recognized that each participating school in Limerick had its unique qualities but emphasized their shared aim of promoting the Irish language.

Mairéad also highlighted the significance of this being the tenth year of the Gaelbhratach scheme and expressed immense pride in the achievements of the school committees throughout the past year.

"Our goal has always been to normalize the speaking of Irish in schools across the country," Mairéad said. She extended her gratitude to the funders of the initiative, Foras na Gaeilge and the Department of Education, for their continued support.