President Connolly hails Irish language students from Cork

President of Ireland Catherine Connolly was in attendance as Cork ETB learners were among the award winners at a national Irish language competition.

Tom Mac Giolla Choda, Lily Ní hUigin, Coco Ní Chiardha, and Daithí O’Mhurchu, from Gaelcholáiste Choilm in Ballincollig, were recognised at Muintearas ’26, a national celebration of the student voice across Irish-medium schools in the ETB sector.

The ceremony, hosted by Education and Training Boards Ireland, featured an address by Ms Connolly, who engaged with students and praised their leadership and creativity throughout the day.

Ms Connolly said: “It gives me courage and hope, as president of Ireland, that it is clear that young people understand how important it is for respect to be the basis of any human interaction.

“That we would be able to respectfully accept different backgrounds and identities.

“And that it is from this foundation that a kind and compassionate society of the future will grow.”

Muintearas ’26 provided a national platform for Irish-medium ETB schools to articulate their collective hopes and ambitions for the future entirely through the Irish language.

A highlight of the day was the poster competition, where each participating school highlighted the vision of students for the Ireland of tomorrow.

DISCUSSION

Themes of discussion ranged from climate action and technological innovation to mental health, equality, inclusion, and the continued growth of the Irish language in modern society.

The schools presentation competition offered students the opportunity to explore issues of importance in even greater detail.

Beyond the formal competitions, Muintearas ’26 also provided space for collaboration and dialogue.

Students participated in round-table discussions and exchanged ideas with peers from Irish-medium ETB schools across the country.