Mayo students recognised for their grá for Gaeilge

STUDENTS from Dooagh National School in Achill were presented with a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Roscrea.

Taking part in drumming and music workshops and helping to launch a language plan in Achill are just some of the activities set up and run by the student committee in Dooagh NS that was recognised for their promotion of the Irish language.

Run by Gael Linn, Gaelbhratach is a national initiative that encourages primary and secondary school students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting. Flags are awarded in recognition of their efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, bainisteoir, Gaelbhratach, said: “We are delighted to award primary school students from Mayo with a Gaelbhratach. Gaelbhratach gives young people of all backgrounds the opportunity to use and develop their Irish language skills in an interactive and non-traditional way. The programme aims to put the student voice at the centre of their learning through the Gaelbhratach committee. The role of this student-led committee is to direct the Gaelbhratach activities throughout the school year - empowering students to take ownership of how and when they use their Irish.”