Founded in 1966, the Language Freedom Movement (Irish: Gluaiseacht Saoirse Teanga) was a political organisation opposed to some aspects of the state-attempted revival of the Irish language in the Republic of Ireland. This organisation had the backing of several notable Irish-speaking writers including Séamus Ó Grianna ("Máire") and John B. Keane.[1][2]
At the time the Movement was formed, if a student failed the Irish paper in their Leaving Certificate they were deemed to have failed the whole exam.[3] This requirement was abolished in 1973, although students are still obliged to study Irish as part of the Leaving Certificate programme, and a pass is required for Irish students entering almost all Irish universities (but not for foreign students). In 1974 Irish was removed as a requirement for entry to the civil service.[3]
Significant changes in the Leaving Certificate maths curriculum were reflected in two new textbooks produced by the Irish Christian Brothers. However, material for the new honours (higher-level) syllabus was offered only in a government-subsidised book in Irish, while the pass (lower-level) material was published in English. The situation continued for several years, until affordable alternative textbooks eventually became available.
The Movement organised a meeting in the Mansion House, Dublin on 21 September 1966.[3][4] It was advertised by a poster with a cartoon depicting the "Gaelic language policy" as a well-fed cow sitting atop the educational system.[5] The meeting was chaired by broadcaster Gay Byrne.[5] About 2000 people turned up, though most of them seemed opposed to the Movement.[3][5] Opponents taunted the organisers by waving Union Jacks at them and singing "God save the Queen".[3][5] As John B. Keane got up to speak one man seized an Irish Tricolour from the table used by the movement, shouting that the flag should not be displayed at such a meeting.[3][5] A fight involving ten men broke out and calm was only restored when the LFM agreed to four of their opponents speaking at the meeting.[3]
Gardaí were present. At the request of the organisers, Patrick Byrne TD had asked the Garda Commissioner to ensure law and order prevailed.[6]
Irish language writer Máirtín Ó Cadhain and Mick Ryan, the IRA O/C of Dublin were involved in the disruption of the meeting.[7][8][5]
The archives of the Language Freedom Movement are held at the Library of the National University of Ireland, Galway. See catalogue.