Ruane launches innovative Irish language study aid for Ní Ghráda play

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has helped launch an innovative teaching resource for an Irish language drama by renowned playwright Maireád Ní Ghráda.

Local Irish language umbrella group POBAL has developed the CD-ROM study package for Ní Ghráda’s play ‘Breithiúnas’, which was introduced to the A-level Irish curriculum last year. The study aid was launched at a special event at St Dominic’s High School.

Highlighting the need for such resources, the Minister said: “The study of literature is a key component of learning any language, helping young people appreciate further not only the language itself but also the culture and history associated with it.

“Both teachers and young people have expressed that a study aid for ‘Breithiúnas’ would be very useful. By producing an excellent CD-ROM package, POBAL has grasped this opportunity to help young people study what is a classic play in our native language.”

The Minister added: “POBAL has engaged the leading Fermanagh novelist Séamus Mac Annaidh in producing the study aid, ensuring it is of the highest quality. The package is also free to all schools with A-level Irish on the curriculum.”

Notes to editors:

1. POBAL has produced the study aid for ‘Breithiúnas’ as part of its Arts Project 2010, which seeks to raise a positive profile for the Irish language and runs in conjunction with the Arts Council NI.
2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.