Grá ar an Trá’s Sonia Milbourne on the future of Gaeilge
Gaeilge has long been a cornerstone of Ireland’s cultural identity. Seachtain na Gaeilge encourages the use of Irish year after year. With many events taking place in Limerick over the last week, Seachtain na Gaeilge around Ireland aims to promote Irish worldwide. There seems to be a slight resurgence in interest, particularly among young people.
One person embracing this movement is Grá ar an Trá contestant Sonia Milbourne. The Virgin Media reality show, often described as an Irish-language Love Island, brings together contestants with different levels of Irish, challenging them to find love while improving their language skills. For Sonia, promoting Gaeilge is essential.
“I think Gaeilge is important because it’s part of Ireland’s national identity, reflecting its history, traditions, and folklore. By learning, speaking, and promoting the language, it helps Ireland maintain its culture. We should be so proud of our country, our language, and the amazing opportunities that come with it.”
Sonia credits Irish pop culture for this shift, pointing to the success of rap group Kneecap, whose film was screened in the University of Limerick Concert Hall on March 10. She further credits Irish-language podcasts, and TikTok trends like Feisteas an Lae (Get Ready With Me).
“Social media has been great for learning cúpla focal (a few words) and shows like Grá ar an Trá make it more accessible” Sonia adds.
Sonia has also noticed a rise in young people using Irish slang, though she believes school methods could be modernised. “The way it’s taught is old-fashioned, many students memorise essays and quotes without understanding them.
She believes small efforts can make a big difference. “Simple things like swapping ‘Thank you’ for ‘Go raibh maith agat’ help. As the saying goes, Ní neart go cur le Chéile: There’s strength in unity.”
Being on Grá ar an Trá reinforced this passion. “It’s fun, entertaining, a bit of craic, and also educational. Contestants come in with different levels of Irish- some find it easy while others struggle.”
Sonia’s journey with Irish is personal. Growing up with little exposure to the language, she only started learning at 12 when she attended Meánscoil Gharman, an all-Irish secondary school. “It connected me to my identity and history in ways I hadn’t explored before. It’s more than just a language; it’s a way of understanding and expressing a deeper connection to Ireland.”
With advocates like Sonia, the future of Gaeilge looks promising. Through media, education, and everyday conversations, One cúpla focal at a time, Irish can ensure its interest in resurgence is here to stay.
Listen to Sonia as she says her three favourite phrases as Gaeilge!
Seachtain na Gaeilge concludes on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2025