Irish Language Bursary Scheme 2026-2027 Launched

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have announced the opening date for Call 1 of the Irish Language Bursary Scheme 2026-2027. The scheme will help residents in the district to attend Irish Language colleges and courses through bursary assistance aimed at covering course costs and fees.

Applications will be submitted via an online application form. This will be available from 12noon on Monday 9 March 2026. Further information regarding the scheme can be found on the Council’s website www.newrymournedown.org/ssng where a link to the online application can be accessed from the schemes opening date.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “I am pleased to announce that the Irish Language Bursary Scheme is opening again this year. The scheme is run for the local community, to support people who wish to learn Irish, whether at local classes or through courses run elsewhere. The aim of the scheme is to help to alleviate some of the course fees and costs for learners. There are many Irish language courses currently available, and I encourage all in our community to take the next step in their learning journey with support from Council’s Irish Language Bursary Scheme.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council invites applications for bursaries towards:

Local Irish Language Courses
Gaeltacht Colleges
Modules within Irish Language Courses
Intensive Irish Language Courses

Applications are welcome for courses taking place between: 1 April 2026 – 30 September 2026

Opening date: Monday 9 March 2026, 12 noon

Please note: no applications will be accepted prior to the opening date.

For further information please contact The Irish Language Unit:

Email: gaeilge@nmandd.org

Phone: 0330 137 4463

Local Groups and Organisations providing Irish Language Courses

Various Irish Language groups and organisations in the district offer courses both in the classroom environment and virtually. Below is a list of Irish Language based groups on Facebook to help you find out more about Irish classes and courses in your area.

facebook.com/boirche.iochtar

facebook.com/CrotlieveIrishSociety

facebook.com/cumanngaelach.leathchathail

facebook.com/cumannGaelachNaomhMochai

facebook.com/Gaeláras-Mhic-Ardghail

facebook.com/gaelphobalardmhachatheas

facebook.com/glor.uachtartire

facebook.com/milefailte15

In addition, below are some other great online resources to help you find out what Irish Language events are going on near you or online.

http://www.oideas-gael.com/

https://www.gaelchultur.com/

https://www.culturlann.ie