Bonus Episode #1
In this bonus episode of The Language Question ~ Ceist na Teangan, host Finghin Mac Cárthaigh (Flor McCarthy) sits down with Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, Chief Executive Officer of Gael Linn, author, educator, and long-time Irish language advocate.
Together, they explore Réamonn’s personal journey with the Irish language, beginning with his childhood in Crossmaglen, his first joyful experiences of learning Irish through school, song, community classes and the GAA, and the powerful influence of teachers, family, and the Gaeltacht on his life.
Throughout the conversation, Réamonn reflects on his 30-plus years with Gael Linn, the organisation’s role in strengthening and widening the Irish language, and the importance of giving learners real opportunities to use Irish outside the classroom.
This episode reminds us that Irish is not only a school subject or a cultural inheritance, but a living language that continues to inspire people in Ireland and across the world.
Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the emotional power of Irish — from family connections and memory to the deep cultural meanings embedded within words.
This Episode Celebrates:
- The lifelong impact of positive early experiences with Irish
- The work of Gael Linn in promoting and revitalising the language
- The importance of schools, families, communities, and the Gaeltacht
- The growing global interest in Irish among adult learners and new communities
If you’ve ever wondered how Irish can move from the classroom into real life, community, family, creativity, and cultural identity, this conversation offers a deeply thoughtful and inspiring perspective
