Mayo applications invited for Oonagh Bean Uí Shúilleabháin Memorial Scholarship
Mayo County Council has this week opened the third-level scholarship in memory of former Irish Language Officer, Oonagh Bean Uí Shúilleabháin (Ní Chéilleachair). Ms Uí Shúilleabháin was well known in the county for her commitment to increasing engagement with the Irish language and for promoting access, inclusion and creative opportunities for communities across Mayo. This scholarship draws on these areas and aims to provide financial support to a student who is involved in the promotion of the Irish language, or who is active in the Irish-language arts. Full-time students from PLC to PhD level may apply, provided they are from Mayo or are currently living in the county. Applications are encouraged from students of all disciplines, not just those who are pursuing Irish-language courses. The successful awardee will receive a €3,000 bursary for 2026 - 2028 funded by Creative Ireland, as well as a perpetual trophy and development support from Mayo County Council.
Winner of last year’s scholarship, Eibhlín Gallagher said: “The opportunities I have gained through this scholarship have greatly helped my confidence in using and speaking Irish. I will continue to preserve and promote the Irish language in Mayo in the future.”
Siofra Kilcullen, Director of Services at Mayo County Council said: “As a local authority, Mayo County Council is committed to supporting and promoting the Irish language as a vibrant part of community life across Mayo. Oonagh's legacy can be seen in the significant contribution she made to the development and growth of Irish language services across the county. Through her work, she helped strengthen opportunities for people to engage with and access the language in their everyday lives, while also championing the important role of the arts in supporting and celebrating Irish language culture. We are proud to support this scholarship, which recognises Oonagh's lasting impact and will encourage future generations of Mayo students to build on the foundations she helped create.”
Aoife Ní Dhubhlaoich, Oifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officer) at Mayo County Council said that students across Mayo are doing excellent work in promoting the Irish language: “Students across Mayo are doing excellent work promoting the language through involvement in community groups, teaching sean-nós singing, producing literature and poetry, and taking active roles in college societies. This is a unique opportunity for these students to receive recognition and support for their contributions and to further develop their skills.”
Austin Vaughan, County Librarian and Creative Ireland Co-ordinator for County Mayo said: "The Irish language and Irish language-based arts are an integral part of Mayo's culture and creativity. This scholarship embodies Oonagh Uí Shúilleabháin’s passion for the Irish language and her commitment to nurturing a love of the Irish language and creativity in Mayo."
Further details are available here. Applications will close on Friday, September 25, 2026.