A heritage project celebrating the 30th anniversary of the founding of an Irish language and arts centre in the heart of west Belfast will be launched today.
The establishment of Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, which is based in the Gaeltacht Quarter on the Falls Road, will be marked with a special programme of events, including an oral history project, a heritage website, a photographic exhibition, a lecture series, educational and art activities for children, an interactive exhibition and a concert.
The programme has been made possible thanks to a £81,500 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
It will explore the founders’ vision for the centre, its impact on the public and the work of the various organisations who have been based in the Cultúrlann over the years, including Coláiste Feirste, Raidió Fáilte, Aisling Ghéar, Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, Féile an Phobail and the newspaper Lá.
This project also seeks to strengthen the Cultúrlann’s connection with the Presbyterian congregation who used to worship in the old church building.
Edel Ní Churraoin, chair of the Board of Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, said: "The Cultúrlann has always been a pioneer in the promotion of the Irish language, as well as an advocate for arts and culture in the community.
"We are delighted to have this opportunity to look back on the history of the Cultúrlann over the past 30 years and we would like to sincerely thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their generous funding of this two year heritage project, and all of our funders for their continued support: Arts Council of Northern Ireland, who are our principal funders, Foras na Gaeilge, Belfast City Council, Ciste Infheistíochta na Gaeilge, the Department for Communities and Conradh na Gaeilge".
Tonight's official launch will take place at 8pm on Facebook and YouTube.
