This book comprises the first complete treatment of the Irish language in social context throughout the whole of Ireland, with a particular focus on contemporary society. The possibilities and limitations of the craft of language planning for the revival of the Irish language are outlined and the book also situates the language issue in the context of current debates on the geography, history and politics of the nature of Irish identity. A comprehensive multidisciplinary approach is adopted throughout.

A topical and authoritative investigation of the Irish language and identity in Northern Ireland. The phrase 'our own language' has come to symbolize the importance of the Irish language to Irish identity for many Nationalists in Northern Ireland. However, different interests compete to have their version of the meaning and importance of the Irish language accepted. This book investigates the role of the Irish language movement in the social construction of competing versions of Irish political and cultural identity in Northern Ireland, arguing that for some Nationalists, the Irish language has become an alternative point of political access and expression.

For almost a thousand years language has been an important and contentious issue in Ireland but above all it reflects the great themes of Irish history: colonial, invasion, native resistance, religious and cultural difference. Collected here for the first time are texts on language from the date of the first legislation against the Irish: the Statute of Kilkenny, 1366, to the constitution of the Free State in 1922. Crowley's introduction connects these texts to current debates, giving The Belfast Agreement as a textual example and illustrating that the language debates continue today. Divided into six historical sections with detailed editor's introductions, this unique sourcebook includes familiar cultural texts such as essays and letters by Yeats along side less familiar writings including the Preface to the New Testament in Irish. (1602) Providing direct access to original texts, this is an historical resource book which can be used as a case study in the relations between language and cultural identity.

In this book, Aidan Doyle traces the history of the Irish language from the time of the Norman invasion at the end of the 12th century to independence in 1922, combining political, cultural, and linguistic history. The book is divided into seven main chapters that focus on a specific period in the history of the language; they each begin with a discussion of the external history and position of the Irish language in the period, before moving on to investigate theimportant internal changes that took place at that time. A History of the Irish Language makes available for the first time material that has previously been inaccessible to students and scholars whocannot read Irish, and will be a valuable resource not only for undergraduate students of the language, but for all those interested in Irish history and culture.

Using a blend of statistical analysis with field survery among native Irish speakers, Reg Hindley explores the reasons for the decline of the Irish language and investigates the relationships between geographical environment and language retention. He puts Irish into a broader European context as a European minority language, and assesses its present position and prospects.

Language problems potentially exist at all levels of human activity, including he local contaxts of communities & institutions. This volume explores the ways in which language planning works as a local activity in a wide variety of contexts around the world & deals with a wide range of language planning issues.

In compiling this bibliography, the main purpose was to assemble references to published material of a sociolinguistic nature concerning the Irish language. The intent was not to cover publications treating language per se, but rather to consider those dealing with language in its social context. Represented here are articles, chapters, books and pamphlets bearing upon social, historical, psychological and educational aspects of Irish – including the decline of the language, the restoration effort, the relationship of language to nationality and religion, and studies of important figures in the language movement.

Introduction to Ireland is a fascinating subject that encapsulates all that is beautiful about the Emerald Isle. Ireland, situated in the North Atlantic, is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island globally. Historically, Irish culture has played a significant role in music, literature, and folklore. Ireland is recognized worldwide for its whiskey, beer, and distinctive cuisine. The country boasts of an excellent infrastructure, with several attractions such as breathtaking landscapes, ancient monuments, and urban cities. As a country with a rich history, Ireland is an enchanting place to visit, and tourism is a key driving factor in its economy. Visitors flock the country to explore its many attractions such as the scenic Cliffs of Moher, the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway, and the historic Trinity College. The Irish are also known for their renowned hospitality and warmth towards tourists. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music sessions, explore the many rural towns, and enjoy the local cuisine. In conclusion, an introduction to Ireland is a fantastic opportunity to learn and explore one of the world's hidden treasures.

This white paper is part of a series that promotes knowledge about language technology and its potential. It addresses educators, journalists, politicians, language communities and others. The availability and use of language technology in Europe varies between languages. Consequently, the actions that are required to further support research and development of language technologies also differ for each language. The required actions depend on many factors, such as the complexity of a given language and the size of its community. META-NET, a Network of Excellence funded by the European Commission, has conducted an analysis of current language resources and technologies. This analysis focused on the 23 official European languages as well as other important national and regional languages in Europe. The results of this analysis suggest that there are many significant research gaps for each language. A more detailed expert analysis and assessment of the current situation will help maximise the impact of additional research and minimize any risks. META-NET consists of 54 research centres from 33 countries that are working with stakeholders from commercial businesses, government agencies, industry, research organisations, software companies, technology providers and European universities. Together, they are creating a common technology vision while developing a strategic research agenda that shows how language technology applications can address any research gaps by 2020.