Gildernew supports preservation of townland names

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has said townland names are an important part of rural identity.

The Minister was speaking after responding to an Assembly question from MLA Barry McElduff urging the preservation and promotion of townland names across the north of Ireland.

The Minister said: “I very much recognise and value the historic, cultural and linguistic importance of townland names, particularly to the rural community. They are a significant part of our shared local heritage and I am keen to support their promotion and preservation.

“My department will continue to support the use of townland names. One step which I am announcing today to take this forward is that my Department is moving to include townland names within the addresses of all DARD offices. This is a response to an initiative being undertaken by the Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure. In addition, my officials are exploring some other options which can promote and preserve townland names further which will include the ability to input townland names on application forms in the near future.”

The Minister added: “The preservation of townlands needs to be dealt with at a strategic level across the north of Ireland. I believe it is a cross-cutting issue that should be addressed in a joined up way. I have recently written to the Minister of Finance and Personnel about the issue as I am aware that his Department has previously been involved with the NI Place Names Project. Any action that preserves townland names and their usage is an important step.”

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