I live in Tampa florida USA and have a overwhelming desire to learn the Irish language, not only as part of my heritage but also to bring the language to other Irish-Americans in order to preserve irish history and pass on our cultural heritage.
I cannot find anywhere on the web or any schools that can help me effectively learn the language for little or no cost since I have little to no moneyor resources.
Does anyone know where I could turn for help in starting the process of learning this language?
Thanks.
Neil

Neil,

Step one is right here on this site. I've been at it for nearly 5 years and, without a doubt, this is the most consistently helpful resource I've found.

There are a number of self-study books out there for you. I prefer, and recommend Learning Irish by Micheál O Siadhaíl. It's focused on a particular dialect that is spoken west of Galway in the Cois Fhairrage region.

There is also Teach Yourself Irish by O Se that focuses on the Munster dialect.

Beware the trap of worrying about which dialect is best. Just find a book or learning style that works for you and launch into it. After a bit, you'll be able to recognize and understand the various nuances between the dialects with no trouble.

Welcome and good luck!!

Neil a chara,

You can watch irish language programmes on the irish language tv station - www.tg4.ie

Or listen to irish language programmes at www.raidiofailte.com

There's also a few on youtube - type 'Gaeilge'

Apart from that, maybe see if you can find other people in your area who would be interested and perhaps you could start a group?

Any help you might want could be given on this forum...