Students in Limerick pick up prestigious Irish language awards

Students in Limerick pick up prestigious Irish language Gaelbhratach awards. Students from Ardscoil Mhuire, Corbally, are presented with their Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at Mary Immaculate College this week. Photo: Eamon Ward.

Students from six schools in Limerick were honoured with Gaelbhratach awards Mary Immaculate College, Limerick ceremony

Students from six schools in Limerick were awarded a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, this week.

24-hour Irish marathons, céilís and Irish-language bingo were just some of the activities organised and run by students in Limerick, for which they were awarded the prestigious prize from Gael Linn.

Delivered by Gael Linn, Gaelbhratach is a national programme designed to encourage students at primary and post-primary level to use Irish beyond the classroom in a natural and enjoyable way. The initiative continues to grow year on year, with 2026 marking yet another milestone in its continued expansion at post-primary level. For the first time, this year schools from all 32 counties took part.

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This year, a record-breaking total of 165 post-primary schools, including in Limerick, have been awarded the Gaelbhratach — the highest number to date. Each flag recognises the commitment of students and schools to promoting Irish as a living language within their schools and communities. A further cohort of primary schools will be recognised in separate events later this year.

Limerick schools that were awarded a Gaelbhratach in Limerick this week were Laurel Hill Coláiste FCJ, Courtbrack; St. Clement’s College, Courtbrack; Hazelwood College, Dromcolliher; Mungret Community College, Mungret; Ardscoil Mhuire, Corbally; and Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, Monamuck.

Speaking at the event, a past pupil on the scheme, Máire Ní Churraoin, TV presenter, sean-nós singer and social media influencer said, “Gaeilge is such an important part of my life and identity, and it continues to open doors for me in so many ways. It’s a real privilege to be here today celebrating the passion and energy Limerick students bring to the language.

“When I was in school, being part of the Gaelbhratach committee was an experience I’ll never forget. It gave us the confidence to take ownership of Irish and to make it part of our everyday lives in a fun and meaningful way. It’s fantastic to see that same spirit alive and growing stronger every year.”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, Bainisteoir Gaelbhratach, said, “We are delighted to return to Mary Immaculate College for the third consecutive year to celebrate the achievements of post-primary schools involved in Gaelbhratach from Limerick. The continued growth of the programme is a testament to the enthusiasm, hard work and love of the language displayed by students and teachers alike.

“At the heart of Gaelbhratach is the student voice. Through their committees, students lead and shape the scheme within their schools, finding creative and meaningful ways to use Irish in their daily lives. This year’s record number of participating schools, including those from Limerick, along with the outstanding standard of work recognised through our special awards, shows just how impactful that approach can be.

“It is incredibly encouraging to see Irish being embraced in such a positive and authentic way by young people in Limerick and across the country. The feedback we receive highlights not only increased confidence in using the language, but also a genuine enjoyment in bringing it into everyday life.”