Gaeltacht Átha Luain members Linda de Buitléar, Olive Robinson and Pól Ó Braoin with Dr Aengus Finnegan at the recent talk in Athlone library.

Great turnout for ‘field names of Athlone’ talk

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There was a fantastic turnout in Athlone Library on Thursday, September 4, for a talk hosted by Gaeltacht Átha Luain.

The community group, founded in 2019 with the aim of promoting the Irish language in Athlone, was delighted with the attendance for Glasson native Dr Aengus Finnegan's bilingual talk on 'The Field Names of Athlone'.

Over 40 people filled the library to hear how Dr Finnegan, of the University of Limerick, has been co-ordinating the collection of field names and minor place names in Westmeath, in a project supported by Westmeath County Council and the Heritage Council.

This talk was part of a series of activities and events supported by Westmeath Arts Office and Creative Ireland, including classes and events promoting the Irish language in Athlone.

Attendees pictured during last week’s talk by Dr Aengus Finnegan on ‘The Field Names of Athlone’.

Gaeltacht Átha Luain would like to sincerely thank Dr Finnegan for his wonderful talk, Jackie Gorman for organising, and the staff of Athlone Library for their kind support.

The group's next event took place in the back room of The Snug Bar on Thursday, September 11. These gatherings are set to run each Thursday for six weeks: Traditional Singing Workshop from 7pm to 8pm; and Beginners' Irish from 8pm to 9pm.

Both classes are free, but booking is essential. To reserve your place, email: athlonegaeltacht@gmail.com

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