Start your Irish language learning journey with Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin

The Irish language and culture is going from strength to strenth here in the city with more people than ever starting their Irish language learning journey with Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin.

They deliver a wide range of Irish language services aimed at increasing the learning of and use of Irish in the community at all ages.

These include a comprehensive and wide-ranging programme of classes and activities, top class traditional music classes and an unrivalled schedule of festivals and events.

The Cultúrlann caters for all Irish language learner levels, from complete beginner to those with advanced skills, and provides a wide range of social events for Irish language speakers – everything from Family Fun Days to Gaeltacht trips. Céimeanna Comhrá, our language course, has been specially devised to suit those interested in learning Irish for conversational use.

It is taught on a weekly basis and learners build up their vocabulary and confidence unit by unit.

This course is now being used by many Irish language groups here in the North West, in Belfast, in Donegal and beyond. The 2023/24 programme of classes is well underway with classes/ courses available both in-person and online, during the day and in the evening. January 2024 will see the introduction of another brand new Irish language classes for complete beginners.

Education Coordinator Carol Nic Conmara says, “This is such an exciting time for the Irish language in Derry and the north-west. Our aim to restore Irish as a spoken language in this city is gradually becoming a reality.

“We are creating Irish speakers and supporting Irish speakers. The classes are a great place to learn and make new friends. Come along and learn Irish with us! Bain triail aisti – Anois an t-am!”

Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin also offer a range of programmes to encourage and foster Irish amongst young people.

In addition to their Club Óige Setanta (Irish language youth provision) schemes are also available for children who have never learned Irish. ‘Tús le Teanga is Cultúr’ introduces the Irish language and culture to children aged 5-11yrs.