Mayo TD and Gaeltacht Minister to launch Logainmneacha Acla ar Líne

Mayo TD Minister Dara Calleary will travel to Achill next week to launch an online platform which explores the placenames of Achill and the history around them.

Achill’s rich and varied cultural heritage reaches a new platform this week with the launch of Logainmneacha Acla ar Líne in Óstán Oileán Acla on Friday, May 23 at 6pm.

The Logainmneacha collection was originally undertaken in 2004 by Dr Fiachra Mac Gabhann in association with Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla and involved the documentation of over 1,600 placenames in the parish of Achill. Now the collection will be made available on an interactive online map making it accessible anywhere and anytime.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary will perform the launch and speaking about the project Danielle NicEachmharcaigh, Cathaoirleach of Coiste Gaeilge Acla said:

“These logainmneacha represent a link with the generations who came before us and built a life on Achill for us. The richness of Achill’s unique dialect is in every word and we are delighted to be able help preserve these placenames and give them new life.”

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The ordnance survey collection of 1836 involved the anglicisation of Irish names, some of which date back to the sixth century and over time, the meaning of these names can be lost. This initiative, driven by a deep commitment to local history and the Irish language, aims to reconnect the people of Achill with the true meaning of the names of their villages, townlands and geographical features.

“So many of these words relate to farming and the natural world and give a great insight into the lives people have led in Achill. We are forever grateful for the work of Dr Fiachra MacGabhann and all the local volunteers who helped put this collection together. Unfortunately, many of them are no longer with us and we hope to honour them at the launch on Friday. Suaimhneas Síoraí orthu.”

Logainmneacha Acla ar Líne has been spearheaded by Coiste Gaeilge Acla and Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla as part of the Plean Teanga Acla, a program committed to increasing the use of the Irish language in the parish of Achill and preserving the rich dialect of the area.

“We're delighted with the progress so far and this project will only further this cause. The launch will be an Irish language event and a warm welcome is extended to all,” Ms Nic Eachmharcaigh added.