Irish Language Supports

Annual Irish Office Related Projects

Padraig Pearse Gaeltacht Scholarships

Galway County Council established the Gaeltacht Summer College scholarship scheme in 2016 to honor Pádraig Mac Piarais, an educator who set up schools in Dublin and Galway and brought students to Conamara to learn Irish.

Scholarship Details:

• 16 scholarships available, funded by Galway County Council and Gaeltacht Colleges.
• Open to second-level students in County Galway (excluding Galway City).
• Supports attendance at eight Gaeltacht Summer Colleges.
• 5 scholarships reserved for students with financial need—one in each of the five municipal districts (Athenry-Oranmore, Ballinasloe, Conamara, Loughrea and Tuam).
• Applicants for reserved scholarships must prove exemption from Junior Cert exam fees, confirmed by their school.
• Selection is made through an open draw of qualifying candidates.
• A €250 refundable deposit is required.
• Scholarships apply to August 2025 courses, unless a student has already secured a June/July placement that aligns with the draw results.
• Students who previously received a Pádraig Pearse Scholarship are not eligible.

Now accepting applications

Community Support Schemes for Irish Language Promotional Activities

Galway County Council’s Irish Office provides funding for Irish language projects, events, and initiatives in County Galway. Any group or organisation can apply, provided funds are available and criteria are met.

Key points:

• Groups can apply for multiple projects.
• Funding is distributed fairly across Galway County.
• Applicants must follow rules on GDPR, child safety, insurance, and copyright, with proof required.
• Funded projects must acknowledge Galway County Council by using its logo, promoting the event through its Communications Section, and inviting the Cathaoirleach or a Council representative to attend, if relevant.
• Existing Irish language productions can receive up to €1,000.

Cathaoirleach Awards for Best Contribution to the Irish Language

The Cathaoirleach Awards celebrate individuals and groups in County Galway who make outstanding contributions to their communities, including efforts to promote the Irish language. The awards recognise voluntary work in areas such as arts, culture, heritage, and community development.

The Best Contribution to the Irish Language Award honors those who actively support and promote Irish through initiatives, events, or education. Nominations are open to individuals or organizations involved in Irish language activities, and winners receive recognition for their impact.

You can find more details, including nomination guidelines see our Community Competion and Awards page.

Seachtain na Gaeilge

Seachtain na Gaeilge is the world's biggest Irish language festival, celebrating Irish culture with events, music, and workshops. Running from March 1st to 17th, it ends on St. Patrick’s Day.

In Galway, the City & County Library Service and Oifig na Gaeilge hold planned free Irish and bilingual events, including conversation circles, workshops, talks, poetry nights, performances and children's activities. Everyone is welcome - it's a great chance to try a few words of Irish!

Scoil An Phiarsaigh

Scoil an Phiarsaigh is an educational event held at Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh in Ros Muc, County Galway. It explores history, folklore, sport, and Irish culture, offering lectures, discussions, and performances through the medium of Irish. The event takes place near Patrick Pearse’s original cottage, adding a strong historical connection to its themes.