Belfast's An Spás Dín Project Seeks Irish American Support for New Language Archive

New Interpretive Centre to Document Irish Language Revival

Belfast is set to host a new state-of-the-art Irish language Interpretive Centre and archive, named An Spás Dín, with a significant appeal for support being made to Irish America. The project aims to create a central hub for the preservation and celebration of the contemporary Irish language revival, a movement that has profoundly shaped the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland.

An Spás Dín, which translates literally as 'the roof space', is envisioned to be perched atop Spórtlann na hÉireann on the Falls Road in West Belfast. This strategic location places it within the vibrant Gaeltacht Quarter, a focal point for Irish language and culture in the city.

A Treasure Trove of History and Heritage

The primary function of An Spás Dín will be to serve as a community archive, housing a 'treasure trove of materials' that tell the rich history of the Irish language community in the North of Ireland. This extensive collection is expected to include:

• Documents detailing the linguistic and cultural revival
• Photographs capturing pivotal moments and figures
• Tapes preserving oral histories and testimonies

The archive will specifically chart the course of one of Europe's most remarkable linguistic revivals, featuring original drawings, plans, and testimonies related to the creation of Ireland's first urban Gaeltacht at Shaws Road, West Belfast in 1969, and the establishment of the first Irish medium schools. This initiative seeks to celebrate the enduring contributions of a community that has indelibly shaped the identity of the island.

Economic Impact and Community Hub

Beyond its cultural significance, An Spás Dín is projected to bring tangible economic benefits to the region. The development is expected to create approximately 20 new jobs over a three-year period, encompassing roles in facilities management, hospitality, and events management. The centre is also designed to be a dynamic space, functioning as:

• A centre for academic reference
• A meeting place for local Irish-speaking residents
• A major tourist attraction within the Gaeltacht Quarter

Seán Mistéil, Director of Spórtlann na hÉireann and Chair of the Irish medium high school Coláiste Feirste, has been a key proponent of the project.

Call for Support from Irish America

The appeal for support from Irish America underscores the project's ambition and its connection to the global Irish diaspora. Seán Mistéil virtually presented the plans to a roundtable meeting of Irish American leaders in New York, outlining the project's critical role in preserving Irish language heritage. He emphasized the hope that 'Irish America with its time, talent and treasure will get behind this plan.' This presentation took place during a meeting of Honorary Chairs of the New York-New Belfast conference on September 23. The project highlights the ongoing bond between Ireland and its diaspora, seeking collective effort to safeguard a vital part of Irish identity.