Cill Dara le Gaeilge, Kildare

Cill Dara le Gaeilge is revitalising the Irish language in Kildare by seamlessly integrating it into all aspects of everyday life. The group is the lead organisation for language planning in the county supporting businesses, community groups, and youth groups that wish to offer services or organise events through the medium of Irish.

Some of the many activities they support include Irish language classes for adults, conversationcircles, PopUpGaelteachthai, an annual language planning seminar, Féile na Sollán, Naas Street Festival, storytelling for children, a book club, family events, and a Seachtain na Gaeilge programme.

Due to the dedication of Cill Dara le Gaeilge and the support of National Lottery Good Causes funding, the Irish language is flourishing across the county. A strong network has been created between the county’s Irish-language school communities and the rest of the community.

One of the highlights of the group’s year is the Naas Street Festival, which takes place on St Patrick’s Day, at the end of Seachtain na Gaeilge. It is the only Irish festival held outside of the Gaeltacht on St Patrick’s Day. Funding support allows Cill Dara le Gaeilge to offer all festival activities for free at this family-friendly event.

The group is very much focussed on the community and ensuring the Irish language and culture flourishes across Kildare, working in partnership with other local community organisations.

With the launch of their second strategic plan, Cill Dara le Gaeilge are not just promoting Irish; they’re transforming how it’s lived and spoken across the county now and for future generations. The National Lottery Good Causes Awards are delighted to honour their achievements as the 2024 Irish Language category winners.