Independent review published on first 10 Gaeltacht language plans as second cycle approaches

Minister Dara Calleary has announced the publication of an independent review of the first 10 language plans prepared under the Gaeltacht language planning process. The review, carried out by Barr Feabhais Teo., assesses early implementation under the statutory framework set out in the Gaeltacht Act 2012.

According to the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the consultants engaged in research and consultation with a range of organisations and Irish-language stakeholders. The review contains recommendations intended to support the language planning process in the coming years, and the Department has published its response to those recommendations alongside the review.

The Department notes that implementation of a number of recommendations is already underway, including measures linked to the National Plan for Irish Language Public Services and the Digital Plan for the Irish Language, as well as additional supports focused on family language transmission, early years provision, youth services and the arts.

In his statement, Minister Calleary said the review identified challenges but concluded that the overall process is proving successful. He also indicated that many recommendations relate to the delivery of public services in the Gaeltacht and said he will bring the first Action Plan for Irish Language Public Services to Government this week.

The Minister further stated that Budget 2026 provides the largest ever increase for the Irish language and Gaeltacht sector and that an additional €3 million will be invested in the language planning process in 2026. He said this investment, alongside the Action Plan, is intended to accelerate progress and support the approach to the second cycle of the language planning process.