Gaeltacht summer tradition under threat as colleges struggle to cope with exodus of mná tí
It's a tradition enjoyed by generations of Irish teenagers – going to the Gaeltacht without their parents for a few happy weeks in the summer, being immersed in the Irish language and, hopefully, leaving with a lifelong grá for Gaeilge.
But that tradition is under threat. While, for today's students, the Covid lockdown is a distant memory, the Gaeltacht colleges are still struggling with its legacy.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
RTÉ News
2 hours ago
- RTÉ News
Here are some of Heritage Week's 2,114 events you should check out
Analysis: Heritage Week must-sees include Claddagh rings, medieval armoury, urban walking tours, soda bread and scything championships Here we go again! It's National Heritage Week, that glorious week of the year eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts of Irish history and heritage like myself. Organised by the Heritage Council, the week celebrates all things heritage with a variety of events around the island of Ireland that brings together communities, families, organisations, cultural institutions and enthusiasts, to build awareness about the value of heritage. It's a testament to the level of interest that the week has grown greatly since since the Heritage Council assumed responsibility for it in 2005. The week from August 16th to 24th offers everyone a chance to engage with heritage. Heritage fosters community identity, is central to our tourism industry and plays an important role in wellbeing. Even those who have not had an opportunity to formally study history can find their imaginations ignited by heritage. Events are in plain English, are very accessible and welcome for all. The fact that National Heritage Week takes place in the final peak boredom weeks of the school summer holidays, with many child-friendly free events, allows parents to introduce their children to heritage in an affordable way (most of the events are free). From RTÉ Archives, Samantha Libreri reports for RTÉ News on people take part in 'Digging History' at Swords Castle during Heritage Week 2015 Much of National Heritage Week is dependent to a large extent on the work and enthusiasm of volunteers and local heritage groups. These people are passionate about our heritage and willing to offer their own invaluable time and expertise for free. They should be applauded for their efforts. As always my chief complaint is that it is just not long enough: a fortnight, or even a month, would be more appropriate to celebrate the heritage of a country steeped in such vast history and tradition. At the time of writing, there are an eye-watering 2,114 listings on the website. These are my personal picks of events and I've tried to pick a range as widely dispersed around the country as possible. You can make your own list by using the What's On tab on the Heritage Week website to filter events by county and 'hearting' an event you like to keep your choices together. For heritage lovers, it's a bit like getting the highlighting pen out for the Christmas RTE Guide! As I said, the majority of the events are free, but some are not and it is worth checking this beforehand. Some may involve pre booking to attend so do check the details of each via the website. Happy Heritage Week! Holy wells in Roscommon, Galway, Cork and Carlow With around 3,000 holy wells dotted around Ireland one would expect many events listed for heritage week on that topic, and there are. A documentary screening of Echoes of Faith: The Holy Wells of West Cork in Bantry highlights the importance of west Cork's holy wells, while in Carlow a lecture with Dr. Bruce Misstear will explore the hydrology of holy wells, There are exhibitions of holy wells in Galway and Roscommon. 18th century architecture in Limerick and Dublin If you have not yet been to the Casino in Marino in person, then why not? It is an absolute delight to experience this beautiful building in real life and it is an icon of Irish neoclassical architectural design. For Heritage Week, a special tour offers an in-depth exploration of how the Classical civilisations of Greece and Rome influenced the design of the Casino. If that has whetted your appetite for all things neoclassical, a tour of the interior of Rathfarnham Castle shows how Sir William Chambers and James 'Athenian' Stuart transformed the design of the building to make it one of the most elegant houses in the country. Meanwhile, the Limerick chapter of the Irish Georgian Society are going subterranean and organising a walking tour of the vaults and cellars of Limerick city. From RTÉ Radio 1's Ray D'Arcy Show, National Museum curator and RTÉ Brainstorm contributor Siobhán Doyle discusses the Harry Clarke exhibition Harry Clarke in Mayo, Cork and Dublin As an art historian, I have never met a person who did not love the ethereal work of the Irish stained glass artist Harry Clarke. For enthusiasts of stained glass and Clarke's work, there are a number of events listed for National Heritage Week. In Skibbereen, there will be a documentary screening celebrating Clarke's work in west Cork, while there will be a stained glass making demo, and a Harry Clarke talk and book launch in Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo. For those in The Pale who do not wish to venture west, there is a tour of the National Museum of Ireland (Collins Barracks) which will take in the new Harry Clarke exhibition. Urban centres and working class lives in Belfast and Dublin It is refreshing to see urban working class past lives prominent during National Heritage Week, and two events in Dublin highlight the role of the Northside of the city in shaping modern Ireland. One walking tour offers an immersive journey through the history of the city's tenement buildings, while another shows how changing political, economic and or social changes left their mark on Dublin's Northside over the centuries. A talk by ANU co-founder Louise Lowe will discuss that theatre company's creative approach to partnering with Dublin Port to create a series of historically grounded performances exploring themes of labour, conflict, memory, and identity. Serving as a reminder of our shared all-island heritage, a walking tour of Belfast's hidden history explores how that city developed over the last eight centuries. From RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland, Heritage Director at Dublin Port Company Lar Joyce on how the rich 300 year history of Dublin Port has been mapped for the first time as part of a new conservation study Traditional Irish food in Tipperary, Roscommon, Carlow and Dublin Two events in Tipperary highlight traditional Irish food: a talk by Terry Cunningham explores Irish food history including ancient farming and feasting traditions, while Peter Ward talks of Irish cuisine with an honourable mention given to Irish soda bread. The annual Farming Rathcroghan conference's theme this year is 'Food for Thought' and looks at many aspects of food in Ireland from an historical, archaeological, folklore, heritage, feast and famine perspective with a range of expert speakers. If you have junior foodies, you might consider bringing them along to a traditional butter and jam making event in Carlow. Meanwhile in Dublin, you can attend a food history themed talk alongside a new food market in the grounds of Swords Castle or an event at the National Library that looks at old culinary recipes featuring some less popular ingredients, not as commonly used today . Old Irish harvest traditions in Monaghan, Kilkenny and Sligo As we are well into August - the beginning of the harvest in Irish tradition - some events explore techniques, tools and customs of this time once so important to rural life. In Kilkenny an event looks at the sustainable use and repair of scythes, once ubiquitous to the harvest and now no longer in common use. This takes place alongside the national scything championships - if you need an explanation, there is an introduction to scything in Monaghan. There are also seasonal 'harvest knots' workshops in Sligo and Ballymore libraries, showcasing how to make these charming lapel decorations, once associated with romance during harvest time in Ireland. Ceramics in Clare, Mayo and Laois There are not huge differences between ancient and contemporary pottery in terms of materials and techniques and some workshops during heritage week aim to show this. One in Clare shows how to build and decorate your own clay pot, another workshop in Mayo explores the art of making traditional Irish-inspired vessels and a similar workshop in Laois is aimed at getting children involved. Warriors and weapons in Offaly, Meath and Cork With the 30th anniversary of Braveheart in the news recently, what better excuse for fans to reacquaint themselves with Trim Castle? This is where some of the film was shot and where there is a medieval armoury display for Heritage Week. On a similar theme, the romantic ruins of Clonmacnoise evoke not only our monastic heritage but provide an appropriate setting for a talk on how the site played host to agitation, propaganda battles, burial and commemoration through the ages. To commemorate one of our greatest warriors, the wonderful Michael Collins' House Museum in Clonakilty has free admission to mark the anniversary of his death on August 22nd. Neolithic archaeology in Sligo Sligo is fast becoming acknowledged as the neolithic capital of Ireland with the growing awareness of the important monuments there, thanks to the ongoing UNESCO World Heritage bid for the Passage Tomb Landscape of the county. A tour and talk at Carrowmore OPW neolithic site will explore how many of these passage tombs were constructed, with a focus on their dolmen capstones. Carrowmore is also offering a 'Big Dig' archaeology event for children this year. The Claddagh ring in Galway The team at the wonderful Galway City Museum have followed this year's theme "Exploring our Foundations" by having a special tour, which begins with the origins of the city and then focuses on an important object in their collections. The museum is home to the oldest known Claddagh ring, which was made by Galway goldsmith Richard Joyce around the 18th century. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the museum's collections and find out more about an iconic Irish design synonymous with Galway and known the world over.
The Journal
7 hours ago
- The Journal
Looking for somewhere to stay in Dublin this summer? These standout hotels are the answer
DUBLIN MIGHT SEEM like a small city, but with so much to do, you need to be based somewhere that leaves you well-connected to all of the capital's most popular landmarks. If you're visiting Dublin this autumn, you want to make sure your accommodation puts you in the perfect position to get around the city while also offering your comfort, luxury, and delicious food and drink options. Give yourself the best possible experience of Dublin by booking a stay at any of these hotels: Hilton Dublin Kilmainham From cosy double rooms to spacious king-bed suites, the four-star Hilton Dublin Kilmainham offers comfort and style in one of the city's historical spots. Experience the best of Irish and international cuisine at Broyage Bar, Bistro & Terrace , enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes in a stylish, relaxed setting with views of Dublin's skyline. Guests also have access to our leisure facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, and fitness centre — perfect for unwinding after a day in the city. Conveniently situated near Kilmainham Gaol, Phoenix Park, and the Guinness Storehouse, Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is the ideal base for exploring Dublin's history, culture, and nightlife. Excellent transport links make it easy to reach Dublin Airport, the Convention Centre, and other key business hubs. Whether you're here to work, relax, or discover the city, our dedicated team ensures your stay is smooth, comfortable, and memorable. Visit Hilton Dublin Kilmainham online to explore or book a stay. Advertisement The Hendrick – Dublin Smithfield This boutique hotel is located in one of Dublin's most vibrant, up-and-coming areas. Smithfield itself is packed with a range of pubs to give you a sense of true Dublin, while also being a very short walk (and even shorter Luas ride) to the very heart of town. Within minutes, you can be in O'Connell Street, a mere stone's throw from Temple Bar dozens of restaurants, bars and sights to see — including Trinity College, Christchurch, the GPO and more. This boutique hotel is on the doorstep of pubs such as The Cobblestone, one of Dublin's favourite traditional pubs, perfect for catching live music or a singsong, and the nearby village of Stoneybatter is regularly voted among the coolest neighbourhoods in Europe for its hip, artistic feel. Visit The Hendrick – Dublin Smithfield online to explore or book a stay. Arthaus Hotel St Stephen's Green The unique rooms of this boutique hotel are sure to draw you in, but in terms of location, you will not find better than the Arthaus Hotel on St Stephen's Green. Just a short walk from one of Dublin's most gorgeous parks — St Stephen's Green itself — this hotel is a prime location for anyone who wants to experience Dublin to the fullest. Right on the doorstep of Grafton St, home to wide array of high end stores like Brown Thomas, as well at the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, you'll step right out of the hotel and into the autumn bustle of Dublin. It's the perfect spot for attending gigs at the Iveagh Gardens, seeing a match at the Aviva Stadium, and right on the Luas green line for total connectivity to the city at large. It also sits above Laszlo's Bar, meaning you can relax in the hotel after a long day of seeing the sights. Visit the Arthaus Hotel St. Stephen's Green online to explore or book a stay.
Irish Examiner
8 hours ago
- Irish Examiner
Colm O'Regan: Fathers - dragging children up mountains for fresh air since 1872
Fathers — dragging children up mountains to get a bit of mountain air since 1872. Mushera is one of those climbable mountains. You can walk it. In summer, apart from a few rocky bits, the turf is positively springy. But it is a mountain, with a degree of up-ness to it. They ask, 'Are we there yet?' Although it's a mountain, that's a reasonable question. Because it has some false tops. Convex parts of the slope where you think you're at the top, but then you crest the brow and there's another dose of climbing to be done. On the plus side, Mushera is a great mountain to be able to see your car from nearly all the way up. So you can see if it's stolen but also it reminds you to check the pocket with your car keys. We're the only car in the car park this beautiful August evening. There's a band of cloud perfectly horizontally off to the south west that threatens rain but never follows through. To the south east, the sun breaks through in enormous sunbeams, Highway-to-Heaven style. The mountain feels blessed. Well, there is no litter. Gravity deters arseholes. On top, there are three summit landmarks. A cairn with a mysterious solar-powered device lodged in it and one rusty old USA biscuit tin. I don't count that as litter. It's heritage. The height marker is the official top bit, but down a little is the cross that gives the better view — all the way down to Dripsey. I feel like we're standing at the point our weather comes from. Even though our family is a blow-in to Dripsey, going to Mushera is still a return to the ancestors. The name Mushera comes from the Hill of the Múscraige, the tribe that gave Muskerry its name. It's the 167th-tallest mountain in Ireland, so I'm promising my children we'll climb the 166 higher ones if there's any messing. It's far more effective than 'I'm going to turn this car around and no one is going to soft play'. The Múscraige are descended from the 111th high king of Ireland. I KNEW Mid-Cork was special. Also up nearby is the Mushera Dancing Platform. What a wonderful thing. People doing Irish dancing up a mountain. The next one is the end of August. It feels exciting, like it's illegal. Like we should post lookouts to see are any redcoats are being sent out from the barracks. The descent is giddy with a gentle slips on the backside. The roads are quiet on the way back. Although the doughnuts at the junctions - the rival sports to dancing at the crossroads - suggest it'll be busy later. We stopped in Nadd pub on the way back. Taytos and Coke. Payback time. What I loved most about it was that feeling of going for a spin. Spins, the underappreciated currency of child-rearing. Jaunts on evenings just to go somewhere. It's harder to justify spins now. There's too much on telly and too much organised fun, and timetables and tickets booked. It was easier before. Boredom forced families out like smoke. Ask Reuben Ocana, the Mexican pilot who crash-landed a Gulf Stream Jet at Mallow racecourse in 1983. He was stuck there for 39 days while a runway was laid so he could take off. Over the 39 days, it seemed as if more people went to gawp at the plane than at the Pope. Just for something to do on a Sunday afternoon instead of going to a furniture auction. All we really cared about was, there would be Tayto on the way back? We would have gone to the Somme if there were Tayto promised. As my children tuck into theirs, having climbed Ireland's 167th tallest mountain, some things never change.
