Language revival hampered by lack of resources

I WAS pleased to see the plight of the Irish language “at home” addressed and I agree with Cabriní De Barra and Conchubhair Ó Liatháin (Letters, October 25).

There are very few resources being made available here to help those of us who are tirelessly working for the survival of the cúpla focal in a predominantly English-speaking atmosphere.

Yet we know the amount that is spent translating documents to give Irish European languave status.

We have not the privilege in Ireland to conduct “gnó tré Ghaeilge” in most of our public services or, if the Irish officer is employed, there is not much effort at displaying such a service through the medium of Irish.

I have asked Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Minister Eamon Ó Cuív about this lack of recognition of Gaeilge in the public service and he assured me that a policy is being implemented.

I haven’t seen such a service made available in any business centre that I regularly access — if we don’t give the use of Irish an airing and allow loyal Gaelgoirs the opportunity to converse as Gaeilge, how can we promote its upkeep?

Also I agree with the comment that there should be special courses afforded to the employed Irish officer to perfect his/her translation skills.

Let’s face it, Irish is a fast-disappearing language in a lot of areas in the country and we are not given the financial assistance or encouragement even to keep it barely afloat.

Eilís Uí Bhriain

Caisleán Uí Liatháin

Co Chorcaí