What is Language Planning?
Language planning is a strategic process for implementing activities that influence the language habits of a particular community. It is a participatory process involving input from a wide range of stakeholders to identify agreed objectives and to develop research-based measures that support the promotion and use of the language.
What is the basis for the language planning process?
The language planning process in Ireland officially began with the Gaeltacht Act 2012. It is through this legislation that Gaeltacht Service Towns and Irish Language Networks throughout the country have official status. The legislation can be read online.
What is the difference between an Irish Language Network and a Gaeltacht Service Town?
Gaeltacht Service Towns were identified through a consultation process held in 2014, when the important role of such towns in providing services to neighbouring Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas was recognised. At that time, sixteen towns were identified as being eligible to achieve official Gaeltacht Service Town status. By now, most of them have had language plans written and approved, and are implementing those plans. You can find more information about Gaeltacht Service Towns here.
Irish Language Networks are recognised through application processes organised by Foras na Gaeilge. As part of this process, potential lead organisations that are interested in writing a language plan for their area submit an expression of interest to Foras na Gaeilge. Successful applicants receive dedicated resources and support to write, secure approval for, and implement language plans. You can find more information about Irish Language Networks here.
What are the steps involved in writing a language plan?
The steps involved in writing a language plan are outlined separately and generally include agreeing objectives, conducting research, designing actions, drafting the plan, consulting the public, and submitting the plan for approval.
What is the timescale for writing and implementing a language plan?
Under the language planning process, a lead organisation has up to two years to prepare a language plan.Once the plan has been approved, the lead organisation has seven years to implement it.
What role does Foras na Gaeilge play in the language planning process?
Under the Gaeltacht Act 2012, Foras na Gaeilge is designated as the organisation responsible for supporting any organisation outside the Gaeltacht that is involved in the language planning process.Foras na Gaeilge fulfils this role through close cooperation with communities participating in language planning, including Irish Language Networks and Gaeltacht Service Towns outside the Gaeltacht.The organisation provides:
- Advice and guidance
- Training
- Networking opportunities
- Funding
This support is available at every stage of the language planning process, from drafting the language plan through to its implementation.
I would like more information about language planning in the Gaeltacht.
More information about language planning in the Gaeltacht is available from Údarás na Gaeltachta at www.udaras.ie.
How can I get more information?
If you would like more information about the language planning process outside the Gaeltacht, you can contact: gaelphobal@forasnagaeilge.ie.
For any questions relating to Foras na Gaeilge and the other schemes available from the organisation, you can contact: eolas@forasnagaeilge.ie.
