More than 60 motions were scheduled for debate, with over 40 adopted by delegates. The remaining motions were referred to the Executive Committee due to time constraints. The agreed motions set out the organisation’s policy direction for the year ahead, covering issues including Irish-medium education, the Gaeltacht housing crisis, funding, language rights, and artificial intelligence.
United Ireland objective added to constitution
Among the most significant decisions was the adoption of a constitutional amendment committing the organisation “to work towards a United Ireland for the benefit of the Irish language and the Gaeltacht.”
Additional motions committed Conradh na Gaeilge to taking an “open, positive stance” on constitutional change, framed around equality, mutual respect and universal language rights.
Focus on housing and education
Delegates passed motions calling for urgent action on the housing crisis in Gaeltacht areas, urging Minister for Housing James Browne to implement proposals developed by language and community groups. The Ard-Fheis also called for enhanced statutory powers and funding for Údarás na Gaeltachta to develop housing.
On education, motions called for a long-term policy target of 20% of students in the Republic receiving Irish-medium education within 20 years. Delegates also urged Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton to award bonus points to Leaving Certificate students from 2026.
Funding and AI concerns
While welcoming additional funding of €2–3 million for Foras na Gaeilge in 2026, delegates said the increase was insufficient to address long-standing funding challenges and called on both governments to provide further investment in line with strategic planning commitments.
Motions were also passed mandating the organisation to discontinue posting images of individuals on X and to reconsider broader use of the platform. Delegates further agreed that community, arts and environmental protections should take priority over economic or technological developments linked to artificial intelligence, and that the organisation would seek to limit its use of AI where possible.
Leadership re-elected
Belfast-based language activist Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin was re-elected as President of Conradh na Gaeilge. A new 12-member Executive Committee was also elected to serve until February 2027.
In his address, Mac Giolla Bhéin described the Ard-Fheis as “incredibly special and timely,” saying the motions passed demonstrate “confidence and clarity” among members about the organisation’s future direction. He said constitutional change represents a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for the Irish language and the Gaeltacht.
Ard-Rúnaí Julian de Spáinn said the conference highlighted a “crucial period” for the language, with recurring concerns around housing, funding, education policy and legislative implementation north and south.
The President’s Award will be presented to Fergus Ó hÍr, while the National Volunteer Award will go to Colmán Ó Raghallaigh.
 of Conradh na Gaeilge concluded after delegates approved more than 40 motions.){kind=link}