Memorandum of Understanding signed between Údarás na Gaeltachta and University of Galway regarding development in the Gaeltacht

Today, Údarás na Gaeltachta and University of Galway signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining plans to collaborate on a wide range of development activities across the Gaeltacht. The memorandum will cover areas including marine affairs, sustainability, language, and new technologies such as artificial intelligence.

One of the main projects under this agreement includes plans to develop the University of Galway site at Crumpán, Carna as a marine research center. This initiative will begin with a master planning process in Iorras Aithneach, examining both organisations’ property resources to explore possibilities for developing educational, housing, and industrial facilities. These developments will contribute to the preservation and growth of the Irish language in the area and serve as a model for other regions.

The collaboration will particularly emphasise the immediate challenges of language development, the use of technologies such as artificial intelligence, and the creative sector. These challenges will be addressed by drawing on the resources of both the University and Údarás na Gaeltachta, including property, enterprise functions, training and employment opportunities, and academic and specialized knowledge. Both organisations have property resources in Gaoth Dobhair and the Connemara Gaeltacht, offering opportunities to examine shared possibilities for development. Relevant stakeholders, such as Galway County Council and Donegal County Council, will also be involved in the consultation process.

Speaking at the signing event, Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said:

“I am very pleased that this memorandum of understanding is being signed with the University. University of Galway has a rich heritage in educational leadership and development, especially regarding the Irish language. Under this memorandum, there will be an opportunity to explore and develop shared initiatives in partnership with the communities of Gaoth Dobhair and Connemara. These efforts will aim to sustain and develop Irish as a community language in the Gaeltacht, as an official language of Ireland, and as one of the official languages of the European Union.”

Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President of University of Galway, said:

“We are very pleased to sign this memorandum with Údarás na Gaeltachta. It demonstrates our University’s commitment to the Gaeltacht and the Irish language. We look forward to working in partnership with Údarás on projects that will contribute to the economic and social development of the Gaeltacht community, and that will also apply our research and educational expertise for the benefit of the Gaeltacht and its community.”

The development at Crumpán in Carna, Iorras Aithneach, will provide an opportunity for Nua na Mara to establish a research, development, and innovation space for work in the marine sector. Researchers and entrepreneurs will be able to use these facilities to develop new projects in the marine sector, which will accelerate growth in the Gaeltacht, the wider region, and throughout the country. This development will also be an important cornerstone in the ambitious development of Páirc na Mara in Cill Chiaráin.

Both organizations aim to leverage their land and property resources collaboratively to promote community projects. Additionally, they will work together on research, sustainability, creativity, and enterprise initiatives.

The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding, and the leveraging of expertise and resources from both organizations, demonstrates the strong commitment of Údarás na Gaeltachta and University of Galway to sustainable development and job creation in the Gaeltacht.

Teagmháíl do na Meáin | Media Contact:
Údarás na Gaeltachta: Kevin Ó Flatharta | Cumarsáide & Margaíochta| k.oflatharta@udaras.ie