IRISH language campaigner Linda Ervine has linked up with a south Belfast GAA club to provide a free 12-week online course for beginners or those wanting to refresh their knowledge during the coronavirus lockdown.
Bredagh GAC has launched the lessons in conjunction with Turas, where Mrs Ervine works as Irish development officer and which promotes the Irish language through free classes at the East Belfast Mission.
It is the latest in a series of links between the GAA and Mrs Ervine, whose husband Brian and late brother-in-law David both led the UVF-aligned PUP.
In March, prior to the lockdown, she gave a talk at Bredagh about the importance of the Irish language and earlier this month confirmed she had accepted an offer to take on the role of president at a new planned GAA club in east Belfast.
Bredagh chairman Malcolm MacFarlane said: "Bredagh, as a community based organization, committed to promoting the Irish language and culture as well as Gaelic Games, are proud to be using our platform with the support of Turas for this free online service.
"This is a unique and historic opportunity for learning the Irish language during the Covid period and beyond. It is also a great opportunity for families to learn Irish together at home."
The course features downloadable resource sheets and singing by Caoimhe Ni Chathail and the first lesson is accessible now.
