AS autumn arrives so too does a new term of Irish classes right across Belfast, as hundreds of learners begin or continue on their language journey.
In the West of the city classes are scheduled to commence in Cumann Chluain Árd, Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, Ionad Uibh Eachach, Glór na Móna, Craobh Uí Thuama, Roddy's and Ionad na Fuiseoige.
In North Belfast, classes will begin in Áras Mhic Reachtain, Croí Éanna, Ciceam CLG Ard Eoin, the Duncairn and the Greencastle Methodist Church.
In South Belfast, An Droichead, Queen's Language Centre, Stranmillis University and Crescent Arts Centre will ensure that learners in the south of the city are not left out. Not forgetting those starting degrees in Irish both at Queen's University and Ulster University.
In East Belfast, Turas will continue their hugely successful programme of classes, with hundreds registered in beginner groups stretching right up to advanced.
A range of online classes will also begin, including the popular Cormac 'Buzz' Ó Briain's. Speaking about his new term, Buzz said that demand has increased from last year.
"164 people are registered for the classes, 44 more than last term. Classes are more or less all sold out, but there are a couple of spaces in the Roddy's Bunrang, and in the conversation classes and the Ardrang.
"Classes are all recorded and sent to the pupils, and I'm always available through WhatsApp and Gmail to answer questions."
Brian Mac an tSionnaigh from Ionad Uíbh Eachach said they are looking forward to welcoming both new and returning learners as the term begins.
"Ionad Uíbh Eachach have provided Irish classes for over 30 years in the Gaeltacht Quarter.
"We have a strong team dedicated to the promotion of Irish in the city. 'Labhair í agus mairfidh sí' is what inspires the centre's community. We want as many people as possible to be confident and comfortable in their use of Irish.
"Our curriculum gives a structure and direction to learning, and we celebrate both the language itself and the hard work of our learners throughout the year. Quizzes, bingo, day trips and Gaeltacht trips give people a chance to see and hear Irish spoken widely and socially.
"There has been a huge increase in the amount of learners in recent years, and Ionad Uíbh Eachach is no different, something we are hugely proud of as an Irish community group."
Milène Fegan from Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, said that eight of their thirteen classes are already sold out.
"We have over 230 people registered for our classes already this term, with thirteen classes a week running from complete beginners to advanced. There are still a couple of spaces left in our classes that run during the day, but not many!
She continued, "We have fantastic teachers, such as Eimear McCotter from Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, Pól Ó Néill from Raidió Fáilte, and a new face this year, newly qualified from St Mary's, teacher Rachel Black.
"In May we have our fáinne exams, with over 100 people taking part and achieving their Cúpla Focal, Fáinne Airgid and Fáinne Óir."
