Oidhreacht

Bíonn toradh ar obair Gael Linn

D’oibrigh bunaitheoirí Gael Linn amach go luath nach raibh rath ar chultúr na ngearán. B’fhearr leo an chéad chéim a ghlacadh iad féin agus an chéim eile ina dhiaidh sin. Bíonn toradh ar obair Gael Linn an mana a bhí acu. Tá oidhreacht shaibhir chultúrtha a bhfuil tábhacht náisiúnta agus idirnáisiúnta ag baint léi tiomsaithe ag Gael Linn ón bhliain 1953.

Stair Gael Linn

Achoimre ar bhuaicphointí i scéal na heagraíochta

1953: A group of graduates from the organisation An Comhchaidreamh, led by Dónall Ó Móráin and Riobárd Mac Góráin, founded Gael-Linn in 1953. Riobard was appointed the first ever full-time manager. Both men spent their whole working careers working for the organisation. (see pic.) >> The founders had definite ideas about what needed to be done to put the Irish language on a secure footing and, moreover, they had strong views on how the old obstacle - lack of funds - could be overcome. Football Pools were founded, based on Gaelic games. >> A sponsored weekly radio programme was produced and broadcast on Raidió Éireann. This programme publicised the results of the pools each week as well as news of Irish Language events. >> A Deed of Trust was signed between An Comhchaidreamh and a group of six people, as Caomhnóirí, or Trustees, who effectively were the first Board of Gael-Linn.
1954: At the July 1954 General Meeting of the An Comhchaidreamh, Gael-Linn's Dónall Ó Móráin claimed that the organisation had timiri in every part of the country. However, the pools made little profit in the first two years, and Gael-Linn could only afford to award small grants. Money was given for Gaeltacht scholarships to Ógra Éireann and An Garda Síochána, and to certain branches of Conradh na Gaeilge, particularly those branches which were active in expanding the pools such as Craobh Aonach Urmhumhan, Craobh Luimnigh and Craobh Inse Chór in Dublin. By the end of 1954, however, Gael-Linn had £3,000 in the bank, and this was considered sufficient to undertake schemes of their own.
1955: A three-month Gaeltacht scholarship scheme for primary school children was established, with 32 children spending the Easter – Summer term in various Gaeltacht areas. (see pic.) >> An Irish language theatre was established in The Damer Hall, on St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin. This was a semi-professional/amateur based theatre. >> A discount scheme was launched under which Gael-Linn members could obtain a discount on Irish-made goods in certain shops. Participating shops were listed on the results sheets that the timirí gave to the members every week.
1956: Oícheanta Seanchais, entertainment sessions of traditional storytelling and sean-nós singing established in Dublin as part of An Tóstal festival. These sessions were held each year until 1960. (see pic.) >> Gael-Linn opened an office on Grand Parade in Cork city. >> In 1956, Gael-Linn established a two-month scholarship scheme for secondary school children from Northern Ireland to spend a period in the Donegal Gaeltacht. At the time, Gael-Linn had not yet set up a summer college of its own, and the majority of the scholarship winners attended Coláiste Bhríde in Rann na Feirste.
1957: Gael-Linn records are among the greatest treasures in the organisation's crown. In 1957, Gael-Linn released its first 78 rpm records. Each record had a sean-nós song on one side and traditional instrumental music on the other. They also had beautifully designed covers, complete with the lyrics of the songs which was a new innovation at the time. (see pic.) >> A series of Irish language drama festivals was started, which led to the establishment of An Chomhairle Náisiúnta Drámaíochta, an organisation for the promotion of Irish language drama. >> It was decided to establish a fish and vegetable processing plant in Camus, in the Galway Gaeltacht. Five boats suitable for in-shore fishing were also procured and given to local Carna fishermen on a purchase lease basis.
1958: A 135 acre estate at Teelin in south Donegal, which included a sheep/pig farm and fishing rights to local rivers, lakes and Teelin Bay, was purchased, primarily to protect the livelihood of the local salmon fishermen. The farm and the fishing rights were eventually sold separately, with the fishing rights being sold to Údarás na Gaeltachta for the benefit of a local co-operative. >> An Irish language teaching institute, Foras na Gaeilge, was established to organise Irish courses for adults and young people. >> Brendan Behan's famous play 'An Giall' (The Hostage) was staged for the first time ever in The Damer Hall. (see pic.) >> Gael-Linn aquired a three-storey block of offices at the top of Grafton St. Dublin for use as their new headquarters. >> The first ever LP was released on the Gael-Linn label, featuring Tomás Ó Súilleabháin and the Raidió Éireann light orchestra.
1959: Weekly newsreels of events in Ireland, with an Irish language commentary, Amharc Éireann, were distributed to the Rank cinemas throughout the country. These continued for five years, with more than 260 editions screened. (see pic.) >> Following submissions to the Television Commission, a body set up to examine and make recommendations regarding the establishment of the first television station in the country, Gael-Linn applied for the licence to run the station but the Government decided to establish a semi-state body to run the new service, Teilifís Éireann. >> Cabaret Gael Linn, a well-presented entertainment programme was established and performed in hotels and tourist venues throughout the country. >> A post-primary school, Coláiste Chomáin, was established in Ros Dumhach, in the Mayo Gaeltacht.
1960: Mise Éire, the first ever full-length feature film in Irish and the first ever feature film based on actual newsreel footage was released, with the now famous music score by Sean Ó Riada. The film covered the struggle for Irish independence from the early 1890's to 1917. (see pic.) >> A decision was made to invest in a seaweed processing factory, Tora Toinne Teoranta, in An Cheathrú Rua, in the Galway Gaeltacht. >> A team from Loreto Convent, Letterkenny were the first team to win the All-Ireland Final of the new schools debating competition. >> Gael-linn opened an office in Lr. English St. Armagh.
1961: A sequel to Mise Éire, another full-length feature film, Saoirse?, covering the period from 1917 to 1922 was released. (see pic.) >> A bee-keeping scheme was established in the West Cork Gaeltacht of Cúil Aodha and in the West Kerry Gaeltacht of Corca Dhuibhne. >> Among the records released on the Gael-LInn lebel was an album by famed piper Séamus Ennis. >> The Sunday Review published a cartoon in June 1961 showing a man berating his pub cronies with the caption 'If Gael-Linn can't put a man on the moon, then nobody can!'
1962: Oyster beds in Cill Chiaráin were purchased to support the fish processing in nearby Carna. >> Properties in Baile an Fheirtéaraigh and Dún Chaoin, in the West Kerry Gaeltacht of Corca Dhuibhne, were purchased for the development of Gaeltacht holidays. >> Gael-Linn undertook the running of a co-op shop in An Rinn, the Waterford Gaeltacht. >> The organisation was incorporated as Gael-Linn Teoranta, a company limited by guarantee without share capital. >> Among the records released on the Gael-LInn lebel were two featuring Seán Ó Riada and Ceoltóirí Chualann, 'Reachaireacht an Riadaigh' and 'The Playboy of the Western World'. (see pic.)
1963: A company producing traditional hand knitted garments, Inisfree Handknits Ltd., together with a retail shop in Creation Arcade/Grafton Street, Dublin, The Donegal Shop, were purchased. (see pic.) >> A short instructional film on Gaelic Football skills, Peil, was released. >> As a new fundraising venture Bingo was started in a number of venues in Dublin and in other centres throughout the country. The first ever session of Gael-Linn Bingo was organised in Cork city. >> A youth club for former recipients of Gael-Linn Gaeltacht scholarships was established. >> Dónall Ó Móráin was appointed to the role of Ceannasaí of Gael-Linn and Riobard Mac Góráin was appointed Ceannasaí Cúnta.
1964: A majority shareholding was taken in a furniture manufacturing enterprise, John Hogg & Co. Ltd. trading as Crannac, in Navan, Co. Meath. >> A short instructional film on hurling skills, 'Christy Ring' was released. (see pic.)
1965: Coláiste Mhac Dara, a summer college for children who had previously availed of a Gael-Linn three-month Gaeltacht scholarship was established in An Cheathrú Rua in the Galway Gaeltacht. (see pic.) >> A short film on social development in Ireland, Rhapsody of a River, commissioned by the then Department for External Affairs, was screened at the Cork Film Festival.
1966: A special commemorative film on 1916, An Tine Bheo, commissioned by the 1916 Jubilee Committee, was released and shown in cinemas throughout Ireland. (see pic.) >> A special marketing company, Irlandia, was established to market Crannac furniture and other Irish manufactured products in the U.K. >> A metalworking enterprise, Miotalra, was established in Carna, in partnership with a Dublin-based company, which subsequently withdrew from the business.
1967: A short film on the traditional music festival, Fleá Ceoil, was released and won an award at the Berlin Film Festival . >> A Friendly Society, Cara-Chumann Gael-Linn, was established as an investment vehicle. >> A majority shareholding was purchased in Glens of Antrim Tweed Co. Ltd. in Cushendall, Co. Antrim. >> In an effort to support the language the Department of Education produced a booklet to assist viewers of a new television series called ‘Buntús Cainte’ while Gael Linn produced a record and audio tapes to complement the series. 'Buntús Cainte' was aimed at beginners and adults with school going children. >> Two records, ‘Ceol na nUasal’ and ‘Ding Dong’, both featuring Seán Ó Riada, Seán Ó Sé and Ceoltóirí Chualann, were released.
1968: A licensed bar and restaurant, Ósta John Devoy, in Johnstown, Co. Kildare, was purchased and refurbished. (see pic.) >> At the request of the organisation, Clann na hÉireann, Gael-Linn took over the running of a Hostel, Brú na Mí, in the Co. Meath Gaeltacht of Baile Ghib. Summer courses were held there for two years. >> Gael-Linn was instrumental in setting up a joint venture with Gaeltarra Eireann and three other parties in the hotel industry, Gaeltearmann Teoranta, to establish a chain of quality hotels in Gaeltacht areas, starting with Cathair Ui Dhónaill, in Co. Kerry. >> A short, amusing film on equine sports in Ireland, Capallology, was released and won the 'Monaco' award at the Brussels Film Festival. >> The record 'Trup Trup a Chapallín' with Cantairí Óga Átha Cliath was released.
1969: The youth arts festival, Slógadh, was established involving local qualifying events and culminating in a national final. Competitions included drama, music, singing, and storytelling. >> The Co-Op shop in An Rinn was closed and efforts were made to help the local community to form a local development committee to run it. >> In March 1969, in collaboration with S. Ó Riada and Ceoltóirí Chualann, Gael-Linn staged a concert at the Gaiety Theatre in memory of the Ulster poet Peadar Ó Doirnín. The recording of the concert, released on an album in 1971, is considered a classic by music enthusiasts, and the event itself is regarded as a milestone in the modern history of traditional music. (see pic.) >> The properties owned by Gael-Linn in Baile an Fheirtéaraigh and Dún Chaoin were sold to a local businessman.
1970: The first ever Slógadh Náisiúnta was held in St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin, and Gael-Linn later released an album of some the leading musicians and singers who had taken part. Among the winners that first year were a group called Clannad from Gaoth Dobhair in the Donegal Gaeltacht! >> On 28 June, Gael-Linn, S. Ó Riada, and Ceoltóirí Chualann held a celebratory concert in honour of the composer Turlough O'Carolan at Cork City Hall. Although it did not enjoy the same level of success as the concert held at the Gaiety the previous year, it was a special occasion, and valuable material was recorded on the night that was subsequently released on the LP 'Ó Riada'.
1971: A short film on life in Ireland, Pobal, was released. >> Eachtra, a summer adventure course for Irish speaking teenagers was established in An Cheathrú Rua, Conamara. Activities included swimming, life-saving, orienteering, kayaking and boating. (see pic.) >> Gael-Linn's shares in Crannac were sold. >> The renowned album 'Ó Riada sa Gaiety' with Seán Ó Riada, Seán Ó Sé and Ceoltóirí Chualann was released, together with a recording of Seosamh Ó hÉanaí, the well known sean-nós singer. >> Seán Ó Riada passed away unexpectedly on 3 October 1970. He was only 40 years of age.
1972: Ósta John Devoy, the licensed bar and restaurant, in Johnstown, Co. Kildare, was sold. (see pic.) >> An arrangement was made with The Department of Education and County Mayo Vocational Education Committee whereby the VEC would take responsibility for the operation and funding of Coláiste Chomáin as a vocational school, with a management committee representing The Department, The VEC and Gael-Linn. >> A new partnership arrangement was made with Gaeltarra Éireann and Portarlington Engineering Products Ltd. with regard to the metalworking business, Miotalra, in Carna.
1973: 'Mótar mo Chroí', a short film about transport in Ireland, was released. >> Another short film, 'Páistí ag Obair', was screened at the Cork Film Festival, where it won the Critics' Award. The film was subsequently invited to participate in the London Film Festival and later received an Oscar nomination. >> The summer college Coláiste Mhac Dara was relocated to Machaire Rabhartaigh in the Donegal Gaeltacht. (see pic.) >> 'Eachtra', the adventure course for teenagers, was also moved to Gort a’ Choirce in Donegal. >> 'The Donegal Shop', the retail outlet in Creation Arcade, Grafton Street, Dublin was refurbished, and a new music shop, 'Fónódisc', was opened at the same location.
1974: Two short films, the award winning Páistí ag Obair, and Poc ar Buile, an amusing film on golf with a commentary by Niall Tóibín went on general release. >> In addition to the Eachtra adventure course in Donegal, a second course was organised in Corca Dhuibhne in the Kerry Gaeltacht. >> The album ’Clannad 2’ was released in 1974, the group's first album on the Gael-Linn label. >> Gael-Linn celebrated its 21st anniversary with numerous events, one being held in Ireland House, Dublin where the achievements of the organisation were publicised and celebrated. (see pic.) >> AIB came on bord as sponsor of the Gael- Linn schools debating competition, a sponsorship that continued until 1998.
1975: As a result of a joint venture with Linguaphone a new home-learning Irish language course was produced and launched. >> A summer college was opened in the Baile Bhuirne Gaeltacht, in west Cork. The college was housed in Coláiste Íosagáin, rented from the De la Salle Brothers, but in 1986 it moved to the local secondary school, Coláiste Ghobnatan.>> Four former cinemas were purchased in Dublin - The Cabra Grand, The Whitehall Grand, The Deluxe and The Strand. Three of these cinemas had been rented by Gael-Linn as bingo venues for a long number of years up to this point. (see pic.) >> The National University of Ireland awarded an honorary doctorate to Dónall Ó Móráin.
1976: An Irish language debating competition for third level students was established, with sponsorship from The Irish Times. The first winners were a team from The College of Commerce, Rathmines. (see pic.) >> Among the musicians and singers whose records were released on the Gael-Linn label in 1976 were Micheál Ó Súilleabháin, Aodh Ó Duibheannaigh, Seán Bán Mac Grianna, Mick Mulcahy, and Seosamh Ó hÉanaí. An album featuring the best of Slógadh '76 called 'Bualadh Bos' and an album by Ceoltóirí Laighean called 'The Star of Munster' were also released.
1977: Numbers 26 &27 Merrion Square were purchased as a new Headquarters for Gael-Linn. (see pic.) >> Following three years of research, carried out in association with UCG, it was decided to commence development of the oyster beds in Bá Chill Chiaráin near Ros Muc in Conamara, which were originally purchased in 1962. >> The Deluxe Cinema was sold. >> Among the musicians and singers whose records were released on the Gael-Linn label in 1977 were Mairéad Ní Dhomhnaill, Jackie Daly agus Séamus Creagh, Pádraig Ó Carra, Paddy Glackin, Dermot O' Brien, Micheál Ó Súilleabháin and Nóirín Ní Riain, and Clannad with the album 'Dúlamán'.
1978: Towards the end of the year the original football pools were discontinued and a new structure, Cairde Gael-Linn, was established as a basis for a monthly members' lottery. (see pic.) >> Among the musicians and singers whose records were released on the Gael-Linn label in 1978 were Nioclás Tóibín, Seán de hÓra, P.J. Hernon, Nóirín Ní Riain, together with an album featuring the best of Slógadh '78 and an album put together by Ciarán Mac Mathúna called' Mo Cheol Thú'.
1979: The textile company, Glens of Antrim Tweed Co. Ltd., in Cushendall, Co. Antrim, ceased trading. (see pic.) >> The Gael-Linn music shop, Fónodisc, was transferred to new premises in Duke Street in Dublin. Among the records released in 1979 were 'Aifreann 2' (S.Ó Riada), 'Donncha Ó Briain', 'John Doherty', 'Ceol is Cibeal Chúil Aodha', agus 'An Fhidil 1'
1980: Following the liquidation of Irish Record Factors, Gael-Linn decided to set up a distribution agency in association with Mulligan Records. >> An Irish language secretarial college, An Coláiste Ard-Runaíochta, was established with the aim of providing a supply of skilled secretaries with a capability for working through the Irish language. >>The Donegal Shop, the retail shop in Creation Arcade, Grafton Street, Dublin was closed and the leasehold on the premises sold. >> Following the decision by the RTE Authority to end sponsored programmes the weekly Gael-Linn radio programme was broadcast for the last time on the 29th of December. >> Slógadh had progressed into a huge festival in its ten years and the Slógadh Náisiúnta was held in Galway in 1980. (see pic.)
1981: The music shop Fónodisc was closed and the leasehold on the premises in Duke Street, Dublin was sold. (see pic.) >> The support organisation, Cairde Gael-Linn, was incorporated. >> Gael-Linn organised a seminar in Dublin on the position of the lesser-used languages of Europe, particularly in the context of a recent report to the European Parliament. >> Among the records released on the Gael-Linn label in 1981 were ‘Rince Gréagach’ (Philip King and Peter Browne), ‘Farewell but Whenever’ ( Treasa O’ Driscoll), ‘Tommy Peoples’, and ‘Cry of the Mountain’ (Micheál Ó Súilleabháin).
1982: A policy document on education, The Future Of the Irish Language in The Irish Education System, was published. >> Over a number of years the organisation was very active in promoting the cause of the lesser-used languages of Europe and Gael-Linn staff were instrumental in the establishment of the European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages. (see pic.) >> A policy document on local radio, 'The Future Of Irish Local Radio', was published. >> Mulligan Records withdrew from the record distribution arrangement with Gael-Linn. Gael- Linn continued distributing their own label and other labels.
1983: The Gael-Linn record label released Sail Óg Rua by legendary singer Dolores Keane, together with John Faulkner. They also released Ceol Aduaidh by Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and Frankie Kennedy, which became a seminal album in Irish traditional music. Other records released that year included ‘Tráth’ (Barry Ronan), ‘Port an Phíobaire’ (Johnny Keenan), Croch Suas É’ (Frankie Gavin), and ‘Éistígí Seal’ (Matt Cranitch. (see pic.) >> In collaboration with the Wexford Vocational Education Committee, an adventure course (Eachtra) was held at the Shielbaggan Outdoor Education Centre in that county during the summer.
1984: A new weekly newspaper, Anois, was launched by Gael-Linn. This was the first Irish language newspaper in tabloid form and the first to use full-colour. Newspread Ltd, a major wholesale distributor of magazines and newspapers distributed the new title. A separate company, Anois Teo., was set up and incorporated. (see pic.) >> The pig farm in Teileann, Co. Donegal was sold. >> The last Eachtra course was held on Achill Island. The cost of such courses were too high for the market to bear in the harsh economic climate that prevailed at the time. >> The Irish language secretarial college, An Coláiste Ard-Runaíochta, also closed following a change of policy by AnCo, the state organisation for job skills training.
1985: It was a sad year for the Gael-Linn staff, as a very popular staff member passed away. Pól Mac Giolla, who worked for Slógadh, died tragically in a road accident in Dublin while still in his thirties. (see pic.) >> Among the records released by Gael-Linn in 1985 were 'I gCnoc na gCraí', (Noel Hill and Tony McMahon), 'Jimmy mo mhíle stór', (Jimmy Crowley) and 'Deora an Deoraí' (F. Gavin, P. Brock, C. Lennon).
1986: Among the records released by Gael-Linn in 1986 were 'Omós do Joe Cooley', 'Mary O' Hara sa Ghaileirí Náisiúnta', 'Bruach na Beirtri' (Seán Mac Donnchadha, Johnny Mháirtín Learaí), 'Sin Mar A Bhíonn' (Na Fíréin), and 'Sing Along Linn' (Máirtín Ó Díomsaigh). (see pic.)
1987: A new publication to help Higher Level Leaving Certificate students of Irish, titled Dréimire, was launched. This was published in six parts over the academic year in association with Anois. (see pic.) >> The oyster beds in Bá Chill Chiaráin near Ros Muc in Conamara, were sold to Údarás na Gaeltachta.
1988: One of the founders of Gael-Linn, Dónall Ó Móráin, who had held the full-time post of Ceannasaí since 1963, became Chairman of the Company and Brian Mac Aongusa became the new Chief Executive. (see pic.). >> Among the records released in 1988 were 'Na Saighneáin' (Kevin and Séamus Glackin), 'Portráid' (Seán Maguire), and 'Cruit' (Patrick Cassidy).
1989: The former cinema, The Strand, which had been used as a venue for Bingo Gael-Linn was sold. >> In line with Gael-Linn's continuing interest in the Irish language in broadcasting a share holding was purchased in Clare FM and in Kerry Community Radio, commercial radio stations set up as a result of new legislation liberalising the broadcast media in Ireland. These shareholdings entitled Gael-Linn to a seat on the Board of each of these new stations. (see pic.) >> A new annual award, Gradam Gael-Linn, was instituted for the student who earns the highest marks in the Irish language A-Level examination in Northern Ireland.
1990: 1990 This was the first year of Gael Linn’s Gaeltacht summer course for adults in Gaoth Dobhair, in the Donegal Gaeltacht. >> The 20th Slógadh Náisiúnta was held in Thurles, Co Tipperary. Having been a great supporter of Slógadh for years 1990 was the final year for President Patrick Hillery to preside over the Prizegiving ceremonies. To commemorate the occasion President Hillery was presented with a prize of his own by Dónall Ó Móráin, Chairman of Gael-Linn. (see pic.)
1991: Dublin was designated European City of Culture for the year. As part of the programme of events to celebrate this accolade Gael-Linn organised a major concert in the Olympia Theatre in April. Clannad, The Hothouse Flowers, Donal Lunny and friends as well as young participants in the Slógadh arts festival took part in the concert. >> An Éigse, or weekend folk school, Féile Zozimus was also organised in the Liberties area of Dublin on traditional Irish culture in Dublin during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This festival was subsequently organised annually over a period of four years. >> A new scheme, Tráth na gCeist Gael-Linn, a series of Irish language table quiz events, was provided for post-primary students of Irish throughout Northern Ireland and the scheme has been very popular ever since. (see pic.) >> The film Mise Éire was issued in VHS video format.
1992: Fios, an Irish language radio quiz for post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, organised by Gael-Linn, was broadcast by BBC Radio Ulster. >> The fishing rights in Teelin Bay and the local rivers and lakes were sold to Údarás na Gaeltachta. >> Gael-Linn took over an existing Gaeltacht summer college for teenagers, Coláiste Riocard Bairéid, in Eachléim, in the North Mayo Gaeltacht. (see pic.)
1993: RTE Radio One broadcast an Irish language radio quiz series for adults, organised by Gael-Linn, under the title Ceist Agam Ort and it continued for a number of years after. (see pic.) >> BBC Radio Ulster broadcast a similar Irish language radio quiz for adults in Northern Ireland, organised by Gael-Linn, under the title Freagair. >> A series of Irish language table quiz events for senior primary school pupils in the Republic was established. These events were organised in subsequent years under the title of Spraoicheist. >> A large ex-cinema in Dublin, The Crumlin Superbowl, was purchased and refurbished as a bingo venue. >> Gael-Linn provided the studio equipment for a new Dublin Irish language radio station, Raidió na Life. >> The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland awarded a doctorate to Riobard Mac Góráin.
1994: Staighre, a new publication to help Junior Certificate students of Irish was launched. This was published in six parts over the academic year in a similar format to Dréimire. (see pic.) >> A bilingual booklet, Irish Works: An Ghaeilge ar do Shonsa, explaining to young people the advantages of learning Irish, was published. >> In association with the Jesuit Film and Video Awards for young film-makers Gael-Linn instituted special awards for the best film in the Irish language and for the best use of traditional Irish music in a film score.
1995: Two adjoining premises in Cecilia Street, in the Temple Bar area of Dublin were purchased with the intention of developing an Irish language cultural centre. >> A special programme entitled An Enrichment Programme in Gaelic Studies, was offered as an optional module to senior students in post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, where Irish would not normally be offered. The programme consisted of eight lectures in English on topics such as - placenames; surnames; Ulster song tradition; Protestant Gaelic tradition; outline history of the Irish language. These lectures were later published in 1997 and updated again in 2015 under the title Aspects of a Shared Heritage. (see pic.) >> Inisfree Handknits Ltd., the company producing traditional hand knitted garments was sold.
1996: Brian Mac Aongusa retired as Chief Executive and Herman Ó Briain was appointed to the position. >> (see pic.) >> A new publication, Céim, for students studying Irish for the Leaving Certificate ordinary level and for transition year students was launched. This was the third title in a series published each year in six parts over the academic year. >> Following its failure to win a new contract and consequent grant aid under a tendering process administered by Bord na Gaeilge, the newspaper Anois ceased publication. The educational publications, Dréimire, Staighre and Céim, continued. >> At the request of the Department of Education and Science a special Irish language course for primary teachers trained outside the State was established.
1997: In the absence of any State aid for the proposed Irish language centre in Temple Bar, the premises in Cecilia Street was sold as part of a joint venture with Óstlann Dubhlinne Teo., to establish an Irish language hotel and entertainment centre there. >> An Irish language public speaking competition for post primary students, Abair, was introduced in Northern Ireland to provide an alternative to the team debates. (see pic.) >> The Cairde Gael-Linn fundraising operation was restructured and a tight network of self employed agents was established throughout the country.
1998: Féile Peile Gael-Linn, a three-day football festival for pupils from Gaeltacht primary schools and Gaelscoileanna was trialed in Ráth Chairn, Co. Meath. The event encompassed a mini league, with social events at night. Over the following years the scheme developed with five separate two day festivals nationwide, one in each province but two in Munster. (see pic.). >> A basic media skills course, Tús na Cumarsaide, was offered to transition year students. The course content covered basic information about the print and broadcast media as well as the basics of making a radio programme. >> Gael-Linn, together with Údaras na Gaeltachta and Cumas Teo, co-sponsored a drama skills course for Gaeltacht youth clubs. >> AIB Banks sponsorship of the Gael-Linn schools debating competition came to an end but the competition continued as usual.
1999: A lease on No. 3 Dawson Street, Dublin was purchased with the intention of opening an Irish language centre with a coffee shop and classrooms. It was officially opened the following year under the name TríD (see pic.). >> The Independent Radio and Television Commission, in conjunction with Bord na Gaeilge/Foras na Gaeilge, established an Advisory Committee on Irish Language Programming. It consisted of representatives from the IRTC, Bord na Gaeilge/Foras na Gaeilge, Gael-Linn and five independent stations. >> Gael Linn ceased its direct bingo operation and leased the three halls to a professional bingo operator on a short-term lease. >> Irish language science days for pupils of Irish medium schools were organised in association with the Armagh Planetarium. An Irish language soundtrack was provided for one of the audiovisual shows in the Planetarium theatre
2000: The Irish language centre and café in Dawson Street, Dublin was opened under the name Trí D. >> A new education policy document was published. >> The Gael Linn headquarters at 26/27 Merrion Square, Dublin, were sold and a new headquarters building at 35 Dame Street was purchased. (see pic.) >> A joint venture with Granada Learning saw the launch of an interactive writing programme on CD-Rom entitled An Scríbhneoir Óg / Young Writer’s Workshop. >> Gael-Linn brought the Irish language translation of Martin McDonagh’s hit play, The Beauty Queen of Leenane, to the Samuel Beckett Theatre in Trinity College, Dublin, where it played to a packed house for five performances. >> Gael Linn was asked to take over the organisation of Bréagchúirt Uí Dhálaigh, a moot court for law students and it became one of the organisations annual events. >> Gael Linn withdrew from the Board of Management of Coláiste Chomáin in Ros Dumhach, Co. Mayo.
2001: Former Ceannasaí and one of the founders of Gael-Linn, Dónall Ó Móráin, died on January 11, aged 77. >> A series of Irish language science days were organised at Oxford Island, Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. >> A new Gaeltacht policy was published. >>The organisation moved into its new headquarters in 35 Dame Street. (see pic.) >> Slógadh was discontinued and new cultural activities including Siansa, Seoid, Comórtas Clár Raidió, and Coirm, were launched and added to the other schemes already being provided. >> Early in the year many of Gael-Linn's activities had to be cancelled due to a breakout of foot-and-mouth disease. >> Gael-Linn won a European award for it's language promotion in Northern Ireland in a competition organised as part of ‘2001 European Year of Languages’. >> As part of a rebranding of the organisation a new logo was created and Gael-Linn lost it's hyphen!!
2002: Antoine Ó Coileáin replaced Herman Ó Briain as Chief Executive of Gael Linn. (see pic.) >> The group ‘Seansúil’- from the Seán Ó Treasaigh branch of CCÉ, Dublin - won the inaugural Siansa Gael Linn competition. The final was held in the Town Hall Theatre in Galway in January 2002 and was broadcast on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta who also became part sponsors of Siansa. >> All the new schemes launched during that school year proved highly successful. >> Due to the growth of Irish-medium education, the 3 months Gaeltacht scholarship scheme, which had been established in 1955, came to an end.
2003: Gael Linn celebrated it’s 50th anniversary in style, the main event taking place in Dublin Castle which was attended by the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, together with numerous dignatories and friends of the organisation. It was also a great occasion for the then staff and previous staff to celebrate their accomplishments together. There was great coverage of the celebrations throughout the year on all media outlets. >> In collaboration with the Independent Radio and Television Commission, a CD featuring short Irish-language phrases titled ‘Blúiriní Gaeilge Gael Linn’ was produced and distributed to all local radio stations across the country for daily broadcast. Broadcasters Mairéad Ní Ghormáin and Hector Ó hEochagáin featured on the CD, which proved very popular with a number of the stations.
2004: A collection of the music and songs from the 78 rpm records released between 1957 and 1961 was issued on two CDs, accompanied by an information booklet, under the title ‘Seoltaí Séidte’. (see pic.) >> Organised by Gael Linn and Comunn na Gàidhlig, and funded by Colmcille, the first three-day ‘Ri Chéile’ festival took place in Edinburgh. For a number of years the event brought together winners of Gael Linn’s debating and public speaking competitions and winners of Comunn na Gàidhlig debating competitions in Scotland. They debated with one another in both languages and took part in various other fun and cultural activities.
2005: Following discussions with RTÉ Radio 1, it was decided to broadcast an Irish-language quiz show in the autumn, a series organised by Gael Linn, with RTÉ handling production. Cathal Póirtéir served as both producer and presenter of the series called ‘Buille Faoi Thuairim’. Teams were assembled from 16 different clubs and societies across the country, and most of the rounds were recorded during the summer, with the exception of the two semi-finals and the final. These were recorded at an event during Oireachtas na Samhna, an arrangement that continued for a number of years. >> Two new CD’s were released on the Gael Linn label, ‘An Áit a bhfuil do chroí’ with Niamh de Búrca and ‘Áilleacht-Beauty’ with Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin.
2006: The second level schools debating competition was divided into two separate competitions, Comórtas Uí Chadhain catering for All-Irish schools and Comórtas an Phiarsaigh for the remainder. >> There was good demand for Gael Linn’s new teaching resources, particularly ‘Buntús Ceoil’ and ‘Gaeilge Bheo’. >> The films ‘Mise Éire’ and ‘An Tine Bheo’ were made available on DVD. >> ‘Irish Music Magazine’ came on board as a publicity sponsor for Siansa. >> Gael Linn’s Northern Ireland staff moved into new offices on Cathedral Road in Armagh. >> In March, the National Concert Hall organised a concert in partnership with Gael Linn as part of the ‘St. Patrick’s Festival Tradfest’ series, and in August, they organised another concert with Gael Linn to mark the seventy-fifth anniversary of Seán Ó Riada’s birth. Among the Gael Linn artists who took part were Peadar Ó Riada, Seán Ó Sé, Tony McMahon, ‘Téada’, and Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin.
2007: Riobard Mac Góráin, a former Ceannasaí and one of the founders of Gael Linn died. The staff were dealt another bad blow towards the end of the year when one of their members Mártain Ó Siadhail also died after a short illness. >> Gael Linn accepted an invitation to set up a new summer college in Bun an Inbhir in the Donegal Gaeltacht. There were 122 students on the first course and the college is thriving ever since. (see pic.)
2008: To commerate 50 years of the first production of Brendan Behan’s play The Hostage in The Damer in 1958 Aisteoirí Bulfin were invited to stage the play in the same venue from 13 to 15 June. Gael Linn also published the book 'An Damer – Stair Amharclainne' by Mairéad Ní Chinnéide >> Gael Linn began organising monthly music events in Bewley’s, Grafton St. with the title Bewley’s@6! The events gave a platform to musicians and singers of all ages and was organised totally through Irish. (see pic.) >> A cultural weekend for adults was held in Ráth Chairn. >> Because of the huge demand for tickets the previous few years it was decided to move the Siansa final to the National Concert Hall, which became its new venue every year.
2009: Following on from the success of the previous year another cultural weekend for adults was held in Ráth Chairn. It was attended by c. 25 people and was such a success that Gael Linn decided to make it an annual event. (see pic.) >> Because the National Concert Hall was unavailable for Craobh Siansa, the final was organised in the University of Limerick Concert Hall for that year only, and the event was a resounding success.
2010: The quiz series 'Buille Faoi Thuairim' came to an end after five years when RTÉ Raidió 1 decided not to continue with it. >> In the first half of 2010, five one-week filmmaking courses were organized in Eachléim, Co. Mayo with groups from Ballymote, Belmullet, Spiddal, and Carraroe. In addition, a filmmaking module was conducted during Gael Linn's two summer courses at Coláiste Riocaird Bairéid, Eachléim. (see pic.) >> Regarding the courses for adults organised annually, 11 courses were held in the Dame St. headquarters during 2010, and specialised courses were provided for Trinity College, Fiontar at Dublin City University, and the Road Safety Authority.
2011: The 'Ri Chéile 2011' festival was held in Clondalkin, Co. Dublin and the visitors from Scotland, teachers and students alike, showed great interest in the efforts of the community there to promote the Irish language.
2012: One of the competitions organised by Gael Linn was a radio programme competition aimed at Transition Year students. In April, representatives from the three schools competing for the national prizes took part in the programme 'SBB Tráthnóna' with Seán Bán Breathnach at the Galway Bay Hotel in Galway. During the programme, Seán Ó hÉanaigh, Head of Programmes, RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, announced the national winners for 2012.
2013: As part of Gael Linn’s 60th anniversary celebrations Mairéad Ní Chinnéide was commissioned to write the history of the organisation. The book is titled Scéal Ghael Linn (fch pic.). A celebratory concert was held in the National Concert Hall in September featuring the group 'T with the Maggies' and the group 'Téada'. >> A pilot scheme was initiated for a new scheme that would recognise English-medium primary schools for their efforts to promote spoken Irish in the school's vicinity, based on the tradition of awarding schools a flag at the end of the year as was being done by other groups such as the Green Flag. Negotiations got underway with Foras na Gaeilge in an effort to gain funding for this new scheme.
2014: Gaelbhratach was officially launched at primary level after a very successful pilot scheme, with one fulltime member of staff, funded by Foras na Gaeilge (see pic.). >> As a result of a process to coordinate and reorganise the work of the 19 Irish language organisations it funded, Foras na Gaeilge announced on 17 January 2014 the six lead organisations that would take responsibility for six major areas of work. Gael Linn was named as the lead organisation with ‘Irish language Education for the English language sector and for adults, and the creation of Irish language activities for school pupils’ under its remit. Responsibility for 'An Fáinne' and the distribution of Mass leaflets was also assigned to Gael Linn as part of the new arrangement, tasks that had previously been the responsibility of Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge. >> The final 'Ri Chéile' festival was held in Glasgow after Comunn na Gàidhlig withdrew from the arrangement due to funding issues. The scheme began in 2004.
2015: A second person was appointed to the Gaelbhratach team to oversee the scheme at post primary level. The first-ever flag under the scheme was awarded in March to Butlerbridge N.S., Co. Cavan, and in April, An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny presented flags to approximately 40 schools at a major event in Dublin. >> The first 'Scléip' finals took place after Foras na Gaeilge had entrusted the running of the scheme to Gael Linn. Changes were made to the competition format to place the emphasis on contemporary music and singing. (see photo) >> A celebratory event was held in Baile Bhúirne, Co. Cork to mark the 40th anniversary of Coláiste Bhaile Bhúirne. >> Gael Linn published the book 'Laoch na Laochra' which tells the story of Cúchulainn and was written by a member of staff Réamonn Ó Ciaráin >> Coláiste Riocaird Bairéid came to an end following an agreement with Coláiste Uisce to take on the houses which had previously been used by Gael Linn.
2016: As part of the 1916 commemorations, a performance of 'Mise Éire', featuring live music and commentary, was held at the National Concert Hall in January. In October, 'ONÓIR', a concert showcasing new work by Peadar Ó Riada, was staged at the same venue. In December, Gael Linn staff attended 'FÉASTA 100', a celebration of the Language Revival organised by the lead Irish-language organisations and Foras na Gaeilge. >> Gael Linn was presented with GRADAM TG4, a special award commemorating 1916, in recognition of its efforts to promote the cultural vision of the heroes of 1916. >> New albums released included 'IMLÉ', 'Áille na hÁille' by Charlie Lennon, 'Tús Nua' by Gatehouse, and 'Tuille agus Trá' by Micheál Ó hAlmhain. >> In collaboration with Oireachtas na Gaeilge, the 'Galf as Gaeilge' event was held for the second consecutive year at the Dunmurry Springs golf course in Kildare. (see pic.)
2017: The 2017 All-Ireland final of Comórtas Díospóireachta an Phiarsaigh was a historic occasion. The final was held in Athlone on 15 March, following approximately 40 preliminary rounds across the country. In the Senior Final, Athlone Community College won for their very first title, having participated in the competition for over twenty years and having lost a couple of finals along the way! They were absolutely overjoyed and the celebrations lasted for a week! . (see pic.) >> A workshop for primary school teachers from Northern Ireland was held in November in collaboration with St Mary’s University College, Belfast, Foras na Gaeilge, CCEA, and NICILT.
2018: Gael Linn established 'An Gréasán', a network for Irish-language teachers at post-primary level, to provide support regarding the teaching and learning of Irish. (see pic.) >> A series of talks titled 'Mo Scéal Féin – Caint agus Comhrá' were held in Gael Linn, Dame St., aimed at adult learners and the Irish-speaking community in the capital. Although attendances were small, the talks themselves were excellent, and it was agreed that consideration should be given to holding similar events in the future. >> It was not possible to proceed with the summer college in Baile Bhúirne due to a lack of beds, and despite efforts by locals, with the assistance of Gael Linn, to run a course of their own, they were unsuccessful. >> A celebratory concert was held at the Imperial Hotel in Cork in May, the place where Gael Linn was founded 65 years earlier. Seán Ó Sé was the star of the evening.
2019: Following positive reports from their inspectors, the Department of Education and Science agreed to provide funding for Gaelbhratach, enabling Gael Linn to appoint two additional staff members to join the existing team of two. >> For the first time ever, in support of those striving to promote the Irish language in this small Gaeltacht area, Gael Linn brought one of its Munster football tournaments to Uíbh Ráthach in south Kerry and it was a resounding success.
2020: The 'Aonach Mhacha' cultural centre opened in the city of Armagh. Gael Linn, in partnership with Cairde Teo., established Aonach Mhacha, and the organisation's Northern Ireland office has been located there ever since. (see pic.) >> Covid 19 arrived in March and most of the organisations activities were cancelled. The staff worked from home and were very innovative in creating events online like weekly concerts with well known musicians, singers and stotytellers, online quizzes for primary school children etc. Even Bréagchúirt Uí Dhálaigh and one or two other regular yearly events took place online and proved successful.
2021: Because of Covid the trend of online activities continued into 2021 and some of them proved immensly popular. The organisation was very lucky to have members of staff who had particular skills in broadcasting, online media and technology in general and some of the new skills developed during this time have been adopted and used ever since. Among the new schemes established was a commentary competition, run in partnership with Croke Park, and also the television company Nemeton who provided muted footage of GAA matches previously broadcast on live TV so the young contestants could add their own commentaries.
2022: Gael Linn Chief Executive Antoine Ó Coileáin retired after 20 years servive and was replaced by Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, previously manager of Gael Linn's activities in Northern Ireland.
2023: As part of the celebrations marking Gael Linn's 70th anniversary, a concert was held in the Sugar Club in Dublin. The magazine 'Comhar' also published a special edition celebrating the organisation. The production company Aniar made a television programme about the organisation's history for TG4, and RTÉ RnaG also broadcast a special programme. Pre-screenings of the television programme were shown at the IFI and at Oireachtas na Samhna, and it was broadcast at Christmas. (see pic.). >> The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht agreed to provide substantial funding to Gael Linn to develop the Gaelbhratach scheme at both levels. Ten additional staff members were hired and situated in various regions across the country.
2024: A pilot scheme titled 'Scoil Spreagtha' was launched in Northern Ireland. The scheme mirrored 'Gaelbhratach' and aimed to support primary school teachers in Northern Ireland in providing Irish-language opportunities for their pupils. >> Former Chief Executive of Gael Linn, Herman Ó Briain died in December. >> Coláiste Mhachaire Rabhartaigh celebrated its 50th anniversary with a very enjoyable function in Gort a' Choirce. >> The Gael Linn Photo Archive was launched at Oireachtas na Samhna in Killarney, a collection of thousands of photographs taken at various occasions since the organisation was founded. The archive can be viewed on Gael Linn's website. (see pic.)
2025: In September Gael Linn took part in an organised march for Irish language rights through the streets of Dublin, together with the other major language organisations. (see pic.) >> The commentary competition for young people was rebranded as the 'Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh Commentary Competition', in honour of our most famous commentator who championed the promotion of the Irish language and was a good friend to Gael Linn.
2026: The 'Scoil Spreagtha' scheme received a huge boost when securing permanent funding from the Department of Education in Northern Ireland, enabling Gael Linn to employ two further employees, who are also responsible for the management of 'An Gréasán', the support network for Irish-language teachers at post-primary level throughout the whole island.

Ceol

Tá breis agus 300 foilseachán ceoil i gcatalóg Gael Linn. I measc na gceoltóirí a thaifead le Gael Linn tá Seán Ó Riada, Skara Brae, Mary Bergin, Dolores Keane, Clannad, Micheál Ó Súilleabháin, Peadar Ó Riada, Aoife Ní Fhearraigh srl.

Tá céatadán ard den cheol seo ar fáil anois ar ardáin dhigiteacha ar fud na cruinne. Tá cuid dó le digitiú go fóill.

Imeachtaí

Ar cheann de na gnéithe is tábhachtaí den oidhreacht a bhaineann le Gael Linn is é an líon ard daoine a bhí páirteach in imeachtaí Gael Linn agus a chuaigh ar aghaidh le héachtaí a dhéanamh sa saol poiblí agus sa saol príobháideach. Is cinnte go raibh, go mbíonn agus go mbeidh rath ar obair Gael Linn.

Ábhar Teagaisc

Gael Linn a rinne na taifid don chúrsa teagaisc Buntús Cainte agus cé gur foilsíodh mar chuid de chlár teilifíse ar RTÉ i lár na 60í den chéad seo caite tá rath ar na taifid seo go fóill agus iad ar fáil ar ardáin dhigiteacha ag Gael Linn.

Leanann obair Gael Linn ag tiomsú oidhreachta a thacaíonn le láidriú agus leathnú na Gaeilge. Tá sé seo déanta againn trí leabhair a fhoilsiú, ceol a thaifead, closleabhar a choimisiúnú, foilseacháin oideachasúla a fhorbairt agus ár láithreacht a mhéadú ar na meáin shóisialta.

Scannánaíocht

Tá traidisiún fada ag Gael Linn maidir le scannáin a fhorbairt. Tá 3 phríomhscannán úrnua, 34 gearrscannán agus os cionn 264 scéal nuachta ar fáil go sábháilte i gCartlann Institiúid Scannán Éireann (IFI). Bhí an-chlú ar Mise Éire, an chéad fadscannáin i nGaeilge a léirigh Gael Linn leis an stiúrthóir, George Morrison. I gcomhar le IFI beidh bailiúchán Amharc Éireann á chur ar fáil ar fud na cruinne i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla go luath. Tá an tábhacht ag ceannródaíocht Gael Linn sa scannánaíocht ó thaobh stair shóisialta na hÉireann ó 50í agus 60í an chéid seo caite ar aghaidh.

D’oibrigh Gael Linn le roinnt de mhórphearsana scannánaíochta na hÉireann ar nós George Morrison, Louis Marcus agus Colm Ó Laoighre.

Amharc Éireann