Write a commentNewry Branch Gaelic League (Comhaltas Uladh de Chonradh na Gaeilge) and Newry U3A will be offering a total of 11 Irish language classes, starting in September. The U3A is providing its usual complement of three classes plus an additional class (for beginners) while Newry Branch Gaelic League have a programme of 7 classes covering all levels.
Máiréad Comer’s popular class will now be taught by Ceara Ní Choinn, the well-known BBC radio presenter, as Máiréad has retired from active Branch teaching having given 15 years loyal service to adult education through Irish. Máiréad Comer and fellow Branch teacher Peadar Ó hEochaidh have recently joined the Board of Trustees of Gaeláras Mhic Ardghail.
Also new to the Craobh an Iúir programme, and well known to all in Irish language circles in Oriel, is Bessbrook man Uaitear Ó Brolcháin. Uaitear will teach the Barr Feabhais class which suits those who have considerable fluency but are not yet ready for the Ard Rang. It is hoped that Bessbrook and Camloch Gaeilgeoirí will join the Irish classes in Newry this year. Year 12, 13 and 14 students of GCSE and A Level Irish in local secondary schools are welcome to attend the Barr Feabhais class and indeed the Ard Rang which is taught by Muiris Mac Dhaibhéid.
The other voluntary teachers on the Newry progamme this year are Gearóid Mac Dhaibhéid, Máiréad Nic Eoin, Peadar Ó hEochaidh and Celine Uí Fhiacháin.
Newry Branch hopes in particular that parents and grandparents of children in the local Bunscoileanna register for classes and encourage participation from all sections of the community in Newry & Mourne. Registration details are available online at www.iurchinntra.ie and will be published in local press.
Registration for the classes takes place at Gaeláras Mhic Ardghail, Chapel Street on Saturday the 21st of September from 1pm to 3pm.
