The Irish language will unlock lessons in shared culture for hundreds of children involved in a cross community project unveiled today.

Funded by the International Fund for Ireland through its Sharing in Education Programme and led by Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, the Together Through Culture project invites primary and post primary schools across Northern Ireland to create new community relations links through joint learning activities.

The project will provide many pupils with their first chance to join peers from different backgrounds to learn and identify issues associated with the language as part of the shared heritage of Unionists and Nationalists and others across the island of Ireland.

Launching Together Through Culture, the Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland, Dr Adrian Johnston, said: “The essence of every language is understanding and communication. The Irish language has a rich history that should not be exclusive or unique to just one community. Together Through Culture provides a gateway for young people in Nationalist and Unionist communities to become more aware of their shared heritage and explore diversities.

“By fostering understanding and tolerance this project is helping to break down old barriers and build new community links that will benefit everyone. Providing opportunities for young people to meet, learn and work together is vital to furthering community relations and helping to support peace and reduce sectarianism in Northern Ireland.”

The project has a central theme of reconciliation and is designed to facilitate new dialogue between pupils in Irish-medium schools and neighbouring schools where Irish language and associated culture is often out of reach.

Dr Micheál Ó Duibh, Chief Executive of Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta said: “Together Through Culture is an important and timely step forward. It is important to recognise that the Irish language is a valued and shared part of the cultural heritage of everyone especially the generations following us.

“This project is about building positive community links between nationalist and unionist traditions and others in our multi-cultural society by encouraging reconciliation, tolerance and collaboration. We are grateful to the Fund for the support we have received to deliver this project.”

The International Fund for Ireland has provided £309,800 towards the Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta, Together Through Culture Project through its Sharing in Education Programme.

The project will be delivered in areas across Northern Ireland including areas of significant disadvantage.

The Fund’s Sharing in Education Programme seeks to break down barriers from Northern Ireland’s historic conflict by providing a range of opportunities for young people to learn and work together. To date over £16m has been invested in SiEP which was launched in 2008.

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