Midlands Science to host first Irish language event

An exploration of Ireland's biodiversity, with a particular focus on the Midlands, will be delivered through the medium of Irish during Midlands Science Week which runs from November 6-14.

It is the first time that an event will be presented in the Irish language with renowned biologist, broadcaster and author Éanna Ní Lamhna hosting the talk in the Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone, on Tuesday, November 10.

This exploration of biodiversity will include the Shannon Callows, an internationally significant conservation area and this links to the water theme of this year’s Science Week programming, as the callows ecology is informed by the area’s relationship with the River Shannon.

The event provides Irish speakers with a unique opportunity to hear one of Ireland’s best-known environmental and wildlife experts discuss the natural world and the biodiversity found in the Midlands.

Eanna Ní Lamhna is a biologist, environmental and wildlife consultant, broadcaster, author and educator. A familiar voice and face on Irish radio and television, she has also written several popular books about Irish wildlife for children and adults. The evening will be hosted through Irish by MC, Dr Aisling Twohill of Dublin City University.

Presented in partnership with Gaeltacht Átha Luain, the event provides a unique opportunity to hear from one of Ireland’s most loved wildlife broadcasters and practice your native language.

Mickey Moran, chairperson of Gaeltacht Átha Luain, said the event offers an opportunity to "reconnect with nature" through the Irish language.

"The Irish language has a rich store of words to describe the natural world which demonstrates the strong connection people in the past felt to nature.

"To reconnect with nature and our Irish language through this Science Week event is a great opportunity for everyone," the chairperson said.

Jackie Gorman of Midlands Science expressed her hope that those interested in the Irish language and nature attend the event.

“Providing this event through the medium of Irish with such a well-known scientist as Éanna Ní Lamhna is a rare opportunity in Athlone.

"I hope that everyone who has not only an interest in nature but also in the heritage that is our Irish language will come along and learn a little more about both.

You don’t have to be fluent to come along, most people who have done Irish in school are often surprised when they attend Irish language events how much they actually understand," Ms Gorman said.

A variety of events are being run across the Midlands from November 6 to 14 by Midlands Science.

More details can be found on www.midlandsscience.ie.