Fluency or Folly? Irish in the Classroom. Episode 469

In this episode, Niall puts the question to listeners — and to guest Karl Deeter — whether more investment in the Irish language is money well spent. The conversation kicks off with Deputy Ryan O’Meara’s proposal for a mandatory Gaeltacht course for all Leaving Cert students, aimed at boosting fluency and transforming attitudes towards Irish.

Callers weigh in with a range of views:

One argues that a Gaeltacht experience could make Irish feel alive rather than just an academic subject.

Another says spending more is pointless when most students forget the language after school.

A third insists that the Irish language is part of our identity and worth preserving at any cost.

A fourth warns that forcing students into a Gaeltacht stay will only breed more resentment.

From cultural pride to practical concerns, Niall and Karl hear it all in a lively debate on whether the future of the Irish language should come with a bigger price tag.