Mayo business honoured at Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann Awards at Croke Park

This year, 160 businesses received GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann recognition awards in, the highest number yet! More than 270 representatives from the business sector came together at the awards ceremony organised by Glór na nGael in Croke Park on November 17 to celebrate businesses that put the Irish language at the heart of their work, and/or that provide a level of service through Irish to their customers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Daithí Ó Sé, guest of honour at the event, said that Irish is an added value for businesses: “As I travel around the country I see GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann plaques displayed in businesses which indicates the importance the language has for them and for their businesses.”

GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann is a recognition scheme that awards Bronze, Silver or Gold status to companies based on their achievements in one category, in two categories, or in all of the following categories: (1) Signage, (2) Branding and Marketing, and (3) Service in Irish. The plaque they receive will be on display as a clear indicator to customers of the level and type of service through Irish that they can expect.

Coláiste UISCE, Contae Mhaigh Eo were the only Mayo representatives to win an award as they secured a GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann medal winners award. Coláiste UISCE received a Gold Award in the Signage category, a Silver Award in the Marketing & Branding category and a Gold Award in the Service category.

According to the scheme manager, Frainc Mac Cionnaith, Enterprise and Business Development Manager with Glór na nGael, he was very pleased that more than 230 businesses were registered with GRADAIM this year.

“These businesses understand the central role our language plays in the culture and identity of the country. They understand that Irish provides a unique competitive advantage that attracts customers, and the number of businesses making use of that opportunity is constantly increasing.

This approach is not only a celebration of our cultural heritage, it is also completely in line with good business practice. During the judging process in September, we saw the valuable work these companies are doing on behalf of the Irish language. I am very pleased that these efforts are being recognised at a national level. The number of businesses taking part this year is a source of pride and shows the high standard of service through Irish that is available, a standard that is going from strength to strength year on year.”

Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann was launched in 2021 and is run by Glór na nGael. It covers the entire island. Businesses can find full information about the scheme at www.glornangael.ie/gradaim.

Photo caption: In the photograph are Karina Ní Dhiamáin (centre) & Róisín Nic Grianna, Eilis Nic Giolla Coille, Caroline Ní Mhuineacháin, Cailtín Ní Dhubhsaigh from Coláiste UISCE in Co. Mayo receiving Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann awards from Daithí Ó Sé and Lorcán Mac Gabhann, CEO of Glór na nGael.

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