A conversation with Joe McHugh

In July 2014, Joe McHugh TD was appointed as Minister for Natural Resources, the Gaeltacht and the Islands, despite having limited Irish. The outcry from the Irish-speaking community was immediate, with protestors chanting ‘Aire gan teanga, Aire gan clue’ (A Minister without a language is a Minister without a clue) outside Government Buildings.
But, instead of retreating Joe embraced this personal and public challenge and embarked on the daunting journey to become a fluent Irish speaker. He faced not only emotional and intellectual struggles, but he rediscovered and found how the Irish language connects us to our heritage, our sense of place and our own identity.

Joe hopes his personal journey will inspire both those who have yet to start their Irish language journey and inspire those who may have once given up – along with discovering the importance of our cultural heritage and the joy of lifelong learning.

Admission free

All are welcome

For bookings contact Donegal County Museum, High Road, Letterkenny, Co Donegal