FÚINN

About Us

Gaillimh le Gaeilge was established with the aim of promoting the Irish language, particularly as an economic resource, in the Galway area.

Why we exist

An independent study, commisioned by Gaillimh le Gaeilge on ‘The economic benefits associated with the Irish language which accrue to Galway City and to the Galway Gaeltacht’ found that;

  • The Irish language is worth in excess of €136 million annually to the economy of Galway City and County
  • Supports over 5,000 jobs and
  • More than 90% of Galway City businesses believe that it is a unique selling point for Galway’s image and cultural identity

This study was undertaken by Bane Mullarkey, a Galway-based business and marketing consultancy, in partnership with economist Jerome Casey. We commissioned this study to focus the attention of stakeholders and beneficiaries in Galway City in particular and in the Galway Gaeltacht, on the economic benefits associated with the use of the Irish language and to ensure that the economic advantages remained in the area.

What we do

Gaillimh le Gaeilge’s work concentrates largely on increasing the visibility of the written language in the city and we have achieved this through the provision of translation services and general supports to enable the business community to develop bilingual signage, bilingual websites, letterheads, menus etc. The visibility of the language is our central focus – mainly due to the high level of impact in creating a bilingual environment, and the practicality of achieving this goal on limited resources. We have also worked to promote the use of the spoken language through its various business events including the monthly Lón Gnó and other regular events.

How we do it

The use of successful schemes such as ‘Cairde Ghaillimh le Gaeilge’, ‘Gaeilge sa Ghnó’ service, ‘Irish on Menus’ and ‘Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh’, have proved effective for us in reaching a wide target audience with a friendly and open approach and in bringing the Irish language to the fore of Galway City life.

We also assume a lobbying and advocacy role, promoting recognition and use of the language in City structures like the Local Community Development Committee, tourism agencies, business groups etc.

Gaillimh le Gaeilge employs three people on a full time basis and an Coiste Stiúrtha with 10 Stiúrthóirí set its policy. Gaillimh le Gaeilge is currently funded by the National Lottery through the Department of  Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Galway City Council and Galway Chamber through the scheme Cairde Ghaillimh le Gaeilge. Gaillimh le Gaeilge is registered as a limited company with a charitable status and is therefore a non-profit company.

Cairde Ghaillimh le Gaeilge

We invite you to join us in the promotion of the Irish language in Ireland’s Bilingual City.

Find out more