Adams Supports City's Gaeltacht Quarter

Groundbreaking plans to drive forward the regeneration of Belfast through the establishment of An Ceathrú Gaeltachta – a dedicated 'Gaeltacht' quarter - are centre stage today (Thursday) as Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams addresses a national regeneration conference.

Speaking in Birmingham, at the Locality and Language Conference, Mr Adams outlined innovative proposals which could see one square mile around the city's Falls Road area transformed into a hub for traditional Irish language, culture and business, in line with recommendations in the 'Dutton Report'.

Written by Clive Dutton, Birmingham City Council Director of Regeneration - who will also deliver a keynote speech at the conference - the Dutton Report was commissioned in 2003 and builds upon recommendations by the Joint West Belfast and Greater Shankill Taskforce.

As well as promoting the establishment of Irish language, arts, cultural and educational projects, Dutton's proposals seek to fuel an economic and tourism boom, while regenerating neighbourhoods which are home to more than 20,000 people.

Gerry Adams said: "An Ceathrú Gaeltachta is an innovative proposal which builds upon the enthusiasm of the Irish speaking community in west Belfast.

"As outlined in the Dutton Report thousands of west Belfast citizens use Irish every day and the development of a Gaelic quarter presents a unique opportunity to create jobs, encourage even greater use of the Irish language, and contribute in a positive way to the increasing diversity of Belfast."

Lying between Belfast city centre and the Andersonstown An Ceathrú Gaeltachta, it stretches across four city wards, including Falls and Whiterock, two of the three most deprived wards in the north.

Report author Clive Dutton, said: "In many ways this area is already the heartbeat of city, the real challenge therefore is how to protect, nurture and grow this unique cultural jewel to the benefit of all peoples."

Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The idea that by celebrating language and diverse cultures we can drive forward economic regeneration and social cohesion is fundamental to the development of any major city in the 21st Century.

"Whether Belfast or Birmingham, London or Londonderry, the ideas outlined in this report provide an excellent blueprint on which aspiring global cities can

base future growth plans."

(JM/NS)