Gradam Gnó Chiarraí heating up ahead of Brehon Hotel showcase
THIS year’s Gradam Gnó Chiarraí has taken on extra gravitas given that we’re in Bliain na Gaeilge, and nine companies are this week buzzing with excitement at the prospect of picking up what has come to be seen as a very prestigious accolade.
Seacláid na Sceilge; SuperValu Listowel; Valentia Ice Cream; Brian de Staic Teoranta; Bricín; Killarney Guided Walks; Aniar TV Teo; Comhar Chreidmheasa Chorca Dhuibhne; Mac Domhnaill Dental; and Puffin Childcare are all in line for Gradam Gnó Chiarraí prizes tomorrow night.
Along with this, The Kerryman will be among the sponsors of one of the night’s category awards, co-sponsoring with Radio Kerry for the Best Services prize.
Other awards include the tourism award, best Gaeltacht, and best non- Gaeltacht, with sponsors awarding each winner an advertising and monetary packet valued at €500 each and a slate plaque from 8pm in the Brehon Hotel, Killarney.
The marking system takes account of Irish use with customers, and on signage, printed output, and through a number of other mediums.
Prior to the awards proper, there will also be a short talk on the Q-Mark recognition for services through Irish from 7pm, while a new business video will also be launched prior to prize-giving.
The awards also see supports available from Foras na Gaeilge and Údarás na Gaeltachta, and they also provide much-needed space for publicity through www.ciarrai.com and Glór na nGael.
“‘Use of Irish creates a distinctive image that can give your business a marketing edge and attract new customers,” Kerry County Council Irish Development Officer Roibeard Ó hEartáin said ahead of tomorrow night’s ceremony.
“The Irish speaking and Gaeltacht communities are often looking for services in their language, and it can be very worthwhile to cater for this growing audience.”