Cumann Gaelach

Cumann Gaelach

An Cumann Gaelach (English: The Irish language Society) is a student society typically found in most colleges and universities in Ireland. Many of the groups were founded in the early 1900s as part of a wider revival of the language, which saw the establishment of national groups such as Conradh na Gaeilge (English: Gaelic League). Although the groups are not formally linked, they operate in a similar manner through the facilitating of Irish classes (usually free), céilís and trips to the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking areas), while many hold special events during Seachtain na Gaeilge (English: Irish Language Week), which takes place the fortnight before St Patrick’s Day. Many of the societies also take part in the annual 'Glór na nGael' (English: The Voice of the Gael) competition, which gives awards to third level groups for their work in the promotion of the Irish language within their institutions. The competition is coordinated partly by Foras na Gaeilge (the body charged with promoting the language) and has existed for several decades. It included a specific category for colleges and universities for the first time in 2006.