Some €325,000 of approved funding has been secured for Conradh na Gaeilge to establish and develop the BÁC le Gaeilge project between 2021 and 2024.
The establishment of BÁC le Gaeilge is seen as an opportunity to increase the use of the language in Dublin city where there is a large Irish language community due to a wide range of Irish language establishments being located there.
These include early education services, gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí, Irish language organisations, two radio stations broadcasting in Irish, Na Gaeil Óga GAA club, third level courses in Irish and many other bodies.
Conradh na Gaeilge, in partnership with Dublin City Council, has set out a programme of activities to ensure that the language is heard and seen more around Dublin city.
Its Head Office at 6 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2, will be used as a centre for businesses and the public to provide information about the services available in Irish and to encourage them to use those services.
Businesses will be encouraged to use Irish in signage, websites, advertising and menus in cafes and restaurants, and an Irish Language Quarter/Area will be developed.
Niamh O'Kennedy, spokesperson for Murphy's Ice Cream, a local business supporting the initiative, says she believes the launch has come at the perfect time: “We have been seeing a huge increase and interest from both our customers and staff in the Irish language. So much so we are now offering all our staff the opportunity to avail of free Irish language lessons. With support of organisations like Baile Átha Cliath le Gaeilge, we believe the Irish language can be accessible and enjoyable for all.”
The company plan to use more Irish in its retail marketing material both online and in store.