Rail operator asks riders for Irish phrases

Iarnród Éireann launched a public survey at Killarney Train Station to gather everyday Irish phrases for a new pocket guide. The initiative, created with partner Conradh na Gaeilge, aims to provide passengers with practical language tools for rail travel.

The guide will focus on common interactions, such as checking train schedules, locating platforms, and ordering food or drink. The operator wants to include terms that help riders ask questions and start conversations with others on board.

This effort builds on a 2025 survey that collected more than 7,100 responses. In that data, 65% of participants reported a positive reaction to hearing Irish spoken on trains. However, over one-third of respondents cited a lack of regular practice as a barrier to speaking the language more frequently.

The new guide supports existing programs like Fáinne On Board. Iarnród Éireann also offers Gaeilge resources and training for its staff to maintain language services across the network.

The launch event in Killarney coincided with Oireachtas na Samhna, an annual festival for Irish-language arts. Local musicians from Brú Ceoil performed for passengers traveling to the festival, which runs from October 28 to November 1.

The rail operator is sponsoring the first Croí Choláiste na Féile competition as part of the festival. Third-level student societies can compete for a 1,000 euro prize by participating in festival events. Passengers have until 5pm on Monday, November 30, to submit their suggested phrases to the online survey.