Conference programme for Tóstal na Gaeilge announced
January 29, 2013
“The Irish language as the national language is the first official language” – so states Article 8 of the Irish constitution, but is that status being upheld by policy makers in 2013?
State responsibilities for the Irish language is just one topic to be discussed by a panel of expert speakers at Tóstal na Gaeilge 2013.
Under the astute chairmanship of Eimear Ní Chonaola, Nuacht TG4, current Government policy will be explored, and the panel will analyse how the Government are upholding their legislative responsibilities in relation to the Irish language. The panel includes recently appointed Chairperson of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Anna Ní Ghallachair. Under the Gaeltacht Act 2012, Údarás na Gaeltachta now have a linguistic function, and have therefore inherited responsibility for language planning in Gaeltacht areas.
One of the most vocal public representatives in their opposition to the Gaeltacht Act 2012 was Senator Seán Barrett, who will speak on issues relating to democracy and the Irish language. Kevin De Barra, Director of Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge will discuss the challenges Irish speakers face in achieving their rights when dealing with the public service. Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh will discuss the deficiencies he sees in the current approach by Government to the promotion of the Irish language.
The one day conference, Tóstal na Gaeilge, will host three separate discussion panels. As well as discussing the State’s responsibilities for the future of the Irish language, panels will also discuss the challenges faced in raising a family through Irish in 2013, and issues relating to language planning in Gaeltacht areas.
Political correspondent for the Irish Times, Harry McGee will open the conference on Saturday, 16th February 2013 at 10:30am, and the conference will continue with the sessions below, under the general theme of “Beart de réir Briathair” [practice as you preach] until 5pm, at the Hilton Hotel, Charlemont Place, Dublin 2.
Session 1: Raising a family through Irish in 2013
Session 2: An Ghaeltacht in 2013
Session 3: State Responsibility for the future of the Irish langugae.
The full conference programme can be downloaded at the following link: Clár Thóstal na Gaeilge 2013 – Beart de réir Briathair.pdf
If you yourself have any questions for any of the panellists, you can submit your question in advance by sending it to maire@comhdhail.ie and the session Chair will direct your question to the panel on the day.
Attendance of Tóstal na Gaeilge will cost €15, which includes lunch which will be provided in the hotel. Your place at Tóstal na Gaeilge should be reserved in advance by contact Máire Ní Phuirséil 01 6794780 / maire@comhdhail.ie. The Hilton Hotel is located in Dublin city centre, and is adjacent to the Charlemont Luas stop on the green line.
Further discussion of Tóstal na Gaeilge can be followed on social networks using the hashtag #tnag13.
Foilsithe ar Gaelport
