Tá Scoil Gheimridh Merriman i gCathair na Mart i mbliana.
The Cumann Merriman School is held every year in honour of poet Brian Merriman (1749 - 1805) from County Clare. It is organised by Cumann Merriman, an association which aims to promote interest in all facets of Irish culture.
A summer school in August and a winter school at the end of January are well attended and popular with Gaeilgeoirí (speakers of and those interested in the Irish language), academics, poets, musicians and singers, journalists, teachers, historians and anyone with an interest in the Schools' many and varied themes.
The Thomond (north Munster) region hosted both Schools since 1968, but from 1980 the Winter Schools travelled further afield, and this year it is the turn of Westport in County Mayo. The theme is women writers and the portrayal of women in Irish language literature.
The importance of such an established Irish language event being held in regional locations has a ripple effect, says Caitlín Uí Sheighin, giving a boost to local Gaeilgeoirí.
Atá ag iarraidh an Ghaeilge a choinneáil in áiteachaí Contae Mhaigh Eo.
Broadcaster and journalist Proinsias Mac Aonghusa is enjoying the programme of events so far, and looks forward to
Deireach seachtaine thar cionn amach is amach.
Scoil Gheimhridh Merriman’s many social events are bilingual, taking place in local hostelries. Matt Molloy’s pub is one venue where visitors and locals gather to enjoy traditional music performed by flautist and member of The Chieftains, Matt Molloy and friends.
This episode of 'Cúrsaí’ was broadcast on 7 February 1991. The reporter is Maireád Ní Nuadháin.
