Donegal’s unique appeal

A chara, – Last week international travel guide Lonely Planet highlighted Co Donegal as one of the world’s top tourist destinations for 2024 (“Donegal ‘fourth-best region to visit’ in world – Lonely Planet”, October 25th). It is of note that the Irish language is listed among the main reasons to visit the northwest.

To us in Oideas Gael, where this year adult participants from 25 countries took part in our Gaeltacht courses, this does not come as a surprise. Many other Irish language colleges for young people and adults across the island were fully subscribed in 2023. Such recognition is, no doubt, evidence of the value of investing in Gaeltacht regions.

A strong trade in cultural tourism creates economic and social benefits for the country as a whole.

Continued and additional support for the Irish language and Gaeltacht communities is needed so that we can achieve Ireland’s full potential as a unique global cultural destination, while also sustaining a critical portion of our island’s heritage. – Is mise,