Rebrand for oldest Irish college in the country

ONE of West Cork’s most iconic colleges has undergone a major facelift.

Ballingeary’s Colaiste na Mumhan – the summer home for so many Irish students down the years – launched their ‘rebrand’ last week at County Hall.

Céim ar Chéim go A1 took place in Vertigo, Cork County Hall, with guests enjoying a night of celebrations which included speeches from Joe McHugh, Minister of State for Gaeltacht affairs; Eamonn Ryan, the Cork ladies football manager; and Caoimhín Ó Drisceoil from Coláiste na Mumhan.

Also in attendance were some of the Cork Ladies football team who were past pupils of the college.

Musical entertainment was provided by Corn Uí Riada winner, Nell Ní Chróinín and the Jerry McCarthy band.

Caoimhín Ó Drisceoil from Colaiste na Mumhan said: ‘I am very pleased with the new rebrand and look forward to welcoming more students this coming summer. Our convenient location, especially for those living in the Cork area, and our centralised amenities make it an attractive option for students who wish to go the Gaeltacht.’

Minister McHugh said he was delighted to launch the rebrand of Coláiste na Mumhan, which is the oldest Irish college in the country, ‘as it goes forward portraying a modern image for a new era.’

‘Coláiste na Mumhan has a vital role to play in the 20 year strategy for the Irish language,’ he added.

‘Although there has been a 7% increase in Irish language speakers, according to the last census figures, the fact remains that over half the population of Ireland cannot speak the language. We should encourage our young people to experience and learn Irish in the Gaeltacht and to have pride in their own language and culture.’