The Irish language will take centre stage in ‘Pobal na Gaeilge’ at this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Co. Laois from Tuesday 24th – Thursday 26th September 2013.
‘Pobal Na Gaeilge’, a unique Irish language quarter during the festival, is an initiative instigated by Údarás na Gaeltachta and Glór na nGael in conjunction with other Irish language groups and organisations.
The groups involved will attend the three day event and exhibit their products and services in a grand marquee titled ‘Pobal na Gaeilge’. The Irish language groups in attendance include: An Spailpín Fánach, Coláiste Uisce, Comhchoiste Náisiúnta na gColáistí Samhraidh (CONCOS), Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge, Foras na Gaeilge, Gael Linn, Ógras, Oideas Gael, Oireachtas na Gaeilge and TG4.
At the Irish language marquee, visitors can experience wonderful Irish language events and entertainment including musical sessions, dance, competitions, CD launches as well as the launch of a new online bilingual digital news service.
For over eighty years the National Ploughing Championships has welcomed crowds from near and far. In recent years this event has become one of Europe’s largest outdoor exhibitions attracting on average 1,100 exhibitors and 189,000 visitors.
A wide range of activities showcasing Irish food, farming and culture incorporating all sectors of agricultural and rural living will be on display. ‘Pobal na Gaeilge’ will showcase products, services and supports available through Irish. Exhibition stands will provide information on the advances in Irish language technologies, as well as Irish language books, t-shirts, and information on events in local communities, and Irish language courses.
Visitors to ‘Pobal na Gaeilge’ will receive a warm welcome whether they have merely a cúpla focal or are fluent Irish speakers. ‘Pobal na Gaeilge’ / Glor na nGael will be located at in Block 4, Row S and Stand Number 309.