The body tasked with promoting the Irish language across the island of Ireland is facing a funding crisis that could result in a cut to a range of services and initiatives it provides to the public.
Foras na Gaeilge’s cross-Border remit includes functions and responsibilities ranging from the development of Irish-medium education to the promotion of language initiatives throughout the country.
In a statement issued to accompany Foras na Gaeilge’s end of year statement 2024, chief executive Seán Ó Coinn, said: “Despite our achievements during 2024 the budgetary situation for 2025 will be extremely challenging as things stand. There is an urgent need for a fair and long-term funding solution that will allow Foras na Gaeilge to serve the public and build on 2024′s progress rather than cutting these services.”
The Irish Times understands that a shortfall of several hundred thousand euro means that some of the programmes funded by Foras na Gaeilge may have to be cut unless additional funds are provided in the coming days.
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High inflation and increased employment costs in recent years have contributed to the financial difficulties at the body. Irish language advocates have long called for increased funding as it is widely believed that current funding levels are considered insufficient to support legislative requirements and growing demand for services.
While Foras na Gaeilge is the State’s primary funding instrument for the language sector its €16.2 million core budget has increased only once since 2008 – by €1.7 million in 2021 – with austerity-era cuts still largely in effect despite improved State finances and increased funding for other agencies.
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