As a result of a new partnership between Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), Údarás na Gaeltachta and Gaelchultúr, the provision of new Irish language courses was formally launched on 9 October 2026 at Áras Inis Gluaire, Béal an Mhuirthead, Co. Mhaigh Eo, by Dara Calleary T.D., Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

These part-time Irish language courses from Levels 2 – 6 and run by Gaelchultúr are designed for professionals who recognise the growing importance of the Irish language across all areas of business and community life. The launch event brought together senior decision-makers from Irish-language and further education and training bodies, and underlined the strategic importance of the initiative for workforce development, enterprise growth and language sustainability, particularly within Gaeltacht regions.

Under the partnership of Údarás na Gaeltachta and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), this collaboration will deliver fully funded, part-time, QQI-accredited Irish-language programmes with clear progression pathways from beginner to advanced professional levels.

The partnership is already delivering results and has generated strong interest, with the first courses attracting nearly seven hundred applications for over one hundred and sixty places. Following the successful completion of the Spring 2026 programmes, a further cohort is currently undertaking training through the Autumn 2026 intake.

Delivery is taking place through Mayo College of Further Education and Training, with MSLETB leading the initiative. MSLETB is working closely with Donegal ETB and Galway and Roscommon ETB to support future national roll-out.

Údarás na Gaeltachta is driving the partnership's expansion which significantly increases access for Gaeltacht enterprises and their employees, opening pathways for complete beginners in Irish to more advanced learners. This targeted approach aims to strengthen the everyday use of Irish in professional, enterprise and community contexts within Gaeltacht regions.

At the core of the programme is the delivery of the Gaelchultúr’s Certificate in Professional Irish (Teastas sa Ghaeilge Ghairmiúil), a structured, workplace-focused qualification designed to support professionals in using Irish confidently and effectively at work. The programmes are available at NFQ Levels 2–6 and aligned with CEFR standards (A1–C1), offering clear progression from complete beginner to advanced professional competence.

Gaeltacht participants will also be offered support by Údarás na Gaeltachta to undertake a Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge (TEG) qualification which would offer them further validation from their Irish language learnings following their completion of one of these courses.

Courses are delivered on a part-time basis to accommodate working professionals, combining live online classes with guided digital learning and structured assessment supports.

This initiative reflects the growing recognition of Irish as both a cultural asset and a business advantage. Research by Gaelchultúr, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Amárach Research (2024) found that 41% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands that use Irish, while 26% would pay more when Irish is used meaningfully.

Speaking at the launch Minister Calleary stated: “This initiative will support the preservation of the Irish language by reinforcing it as a vital part of our cultural heritage, as a living, working language. By expanding access to accredited, flexible training, - particularly for those living and working in the Gaeltacht - we are investing in people, in enterprise, and in the future of our communities.”

This sentiment was echoed by MSLETB Chief Executive, Tom Grady: “This project offers employers and employees an opportunity to integrate professional proficiency in Irish into their skill set. Practical courses such as these, provide professionals with recognised qualifications and career pathways for personal and professional growth within the workplace. We are delighted to lead this innovative collaboration.”

“This partnership with MSLETB helps Údarás na Gaeltachta to support Gaeltacht-based employees on a national basis to avail of structured online language learning opportunities. By investing in accredited Irish-language learning across Gaeltacht enterprises, we're strengthening both the language and the and communities in which they are located,” said Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta. “This partnership will help businesses in the Gaeltacht embed Irish more confidently in their daily operations and assist employees to gain Irish language proficiency and qualifications.”

“This partnership marks a major step in making professional Irish-language training available nationwide,” said Darren Ó Rodaigh, CEO of Gaelchultúr. “By combining accredited programmes with flexible delivery, we’re enabling people to develop Irish-language skills that enhance their careers and contribute to a stronger workplace culture.”

With the Autumn 2026 programmes currently underway, further course opportunities will be announced through Mayo College of Further Education and Training. Those wishing to avail of these fully funded training initiatives can apply through www.mayocollege.ie and applications for Spring 2027 are expected to open in early 2027.