3 February 2026 

• 15% increase for Irish Language Lead Organisations
• Additional funding of €210,000 for the Irish Language Network Development Scheme

The Board of Foras na Gaeilge approved significant increases along with additional projects for 2026 at a board meeting on 30 January in Dublin. Additional funding will be allocated through the €2 million increase approved by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, for Foras na Gaeilge for 2026. 

A 15% increase in funding has been approved for the Partnership Approach for Irish-language Lead Organisations (Conradh na Gaeilge, Gael Linn, Oireachtas na Gaeilge, Glór na nGael and Gaeloideachas) and the areas under their remit, to support their scheduled activities for 2026.  

Additional support of €210,000 was approved for the Irish Language Network Development Scheme. Through the one-off fund, an additional €7,500 will be made available to 28 mid- and advanced level grantees.  

Foras na Gaeilge Chief Executive, Seán Ó Coinn said "We are delighted to be in a position to increase these budgets, for the first time in years. This additional investment will support the promotion of the language at community level. We will also soon be announcing a number of important new schemes which will enhance opportunities for various groups to increase use of the Irish language in the community." 

Further projects and schemes approved under the additional funding will be announced during 2026. 

Ends 

About The Irish Language Networks Development Scheme (Scéim Forbartha Líonraí Gaeilge) 

More information about the scheme is available here 

More information  

Anna Davitt, Programme Manager: Communications, Marketing & Awareness, Foras na Gaeilge 

Phone: 00 353 87 293 7686 

Ríomhphost: adavitt@forasnagaeilge.ie