Our language is our culture and it's disheartening that many Irish people don't know their native language. We face the risk of losing an integral part of our identity if we don't take action to preserve and promote its use.

Learning Irish should not be a privilege but a right accessible to everyone. Currently, there are significant financial barriers that prevent many from engaging with the language in a meaningful way. Offering free Irish language classes across all levels to the public would ensure that everyone, regardless of financial background, has the opportunity to learn and cherish our rich linguistic heritage.

According to a 2016 census, while 39.8% of the population claimed to have some knowledge of Irish, only a small fraction use it daily outside the educational system. This highlights a pressing need to integrate the language into everyday lives, thereby ensuring its survival and growth.

The benefits of bilingualism are well-known. From cognitive development to improved employability, being able to speak Irish can open numerous doors for individuals and society at large. Furthermore, by funding these classes, the government would be investing in cultural preservation and community cohesion.

Through this petition, we are urging the Irish government to prioritize the revitalization of our national language by providing free access to learning opportunities for everyone. Such a move would reflect a genuine commitment to nurturing our cultural diversity and heritage.

Sign this petition to support the call for free Irish language classes for all, safeguarding our cultural legacy for future generations.