Noel Thomas Welcomes Údarás na Gaeltachta Funding Boost as Vital Support for Jobs, Language and Communities

Councillor Noel Thomas has warmly welcomed today’s announcement of increased investment and project approvals by Údarás na Gaeltachta, describing it as “a significant and timely boost for employment, enterprise and the future of our Gaeltacht communities.”

The funding, announced today, will support a range of enterprise, infrastructure and job-creation initiatives across Gaeltacht areas, including projects in the west of Ireland. Noel Thomas said the announcement underlines the central role Údarás na Gaeltachta plays in sustaining vibrant, living Irish-speaking communities.

“This investment is very welcome. Údarás na Gaeltachta has a proven track record of supporting indigenous enterprise, protecting jobs and ensuring that people can live and work in their own communities through Irish,” Noel said.

“For areas across Conamara and the Aran Islands, this kind of support is essential — not just economically, but culturally and socially as well.”

Noel Thomas said continued and strengthened investment in Údarás na Gaeltachta is critical to tackling long-standing challenges in the Gaeltacht, including population decline, housing pressures, infrastructure gaps and the need for sustainable local employment.

“If we are serious about the future of the Irish language, we must be equally serious about jobs, housing and opportunity in Gaeltacht areas. Today’s announcement is a step in the right direction, and it’s important that this momentum is maintained.”

He added that public representatives must continue to work constructively with Údarás na Gaeltachta, local communities and enterprise groups to ensure that funding is delivered quickly and translated into real, on-the-ground outcomes.

“The priority now is delivery — supporting projects that keep young people at home, strengthen local businesses and ensure the Gaeltacht remains a place where families can thrive.”