Irish Language

Key funding opportunities 

We provide vital funding to support the creation and promotion of authentic, engaging Irish language content. These initiatives empower filmmakers, musicians, media professionals, and organisations to develop projects that celebrate and elevate the Irish language. 

Our funding schemes foster creativity, enhance production quality, and help Irish language media connect with diverse audiences. Whether you are an emerging talent or established professional, we invite you to explore the opportunities available through our Support & Funding page and join us in shaping the future of Irish language media.

Sound & Vision Scheme

The Sound & Vision Scheme enriches the media landscape by funding Irish language projects that reflect Ireland’s diverse life, culture, and social issues. Examples of funded projects include: 

• Irish Music Month: This initiative celebrates the richness of Irish music. This year, in collaboration with Hot Press and the IBI, we introduce Amhrán an Laoch (The Hero’s Song), an initiative to uncover original songs composed in Irish.
• Cine4: In partnership with TG4 and Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, Cine4 focuses on developing original Irish language feature films. Since its inception, Cine4 has produced critically acclaimed films, including Arracht, Róise agus Frank, and the Oscar-nominated An Cailín Ciúin.

Sectoral development and sponsorship

Our Sectoral Learning & Development Programme and Sponsorship Scheme support Irish language media by funding significant cultural events and initiatives, fostering a vibrant community of creators and audiences. Examples include: 

• GaelPro: GaelPro is a digital platform designed for Irish language broadcasters. It offers a centralised resource for sharing information about Irish language programming across Ireland’s radio stations, including updates on events, broadcasting-related news, and key stories relevant to the Irish language community.
• Gradaim Chumarsáide an Oireachtais 2024 / Oireachtas Media Awards: This annual awards ceremony celebrates excellence in Irish language media, recognising outstanding achievements across a wide range of roles, including presenters, producers, journalists, columnists, actors, and creators of television and radio programmes. It showcases the creativity and talent driving Irish language broadcasting and journalism while upholding the sector’s high standards.

Ongoing projects and research 

An Coimisiún is conducting a comprehensive Review of Irish language media, as recommended by the Future of Media Commission. This review examines the provision of Irish language services and content across the media system, focusing on institutional frameworks, opportunities for innovation, and strategies for collaboration. 

Recognising the Irish language media sector as a distinct and vital component of Ireland’s media ecosystem, An Coimisiún is assessing how Irish language media represents culture, politics, social issues, and the economy. The review will identify priorities to enhance quality, diversity, and audience engagement, ensuring the sector’s vibrancy and sustainability. 

The Review findings will shape systemic strategies for strengthening Irish language media and provide a robust knowledge base to inform policy and guide the sector’s strategic development within the wider national media landscape.

Collaborations and stakeholder engagement 

The Irish Language Advisory Committee serves as a platform for advancing Irish language initiatives in media. It fosters collaboration among key stakeholders, including broadcasters, content creators, and policymakers, to expand Irish language programming and identify new opportunities for growth. The Committee supports key focus areas in Coimisiún na Meán’s strategy, particularly the ongoing Review of Irish language media. Through sustainable partnerships and research, the Committee works to expand Irish language programming across all media platforms.