Republican News · Thursday 31 January 2002

De Brún praises Lá at launch of daily

Speaking at the launch of the first edition of the new daily newspaper Lá, Sinn Féin West Belfast Assembly member Bairbre de Brún praised the enterprise, initiative and vision of those behind this important project. The Irish newspaper Lá went daily from Monday 28 April.

"West Belfast has had few financial resources over the years but has had the benefit of many local people of ability who have shown enterprise, drive and initiative," said de Brún. "The vision they have exhibited is evident in the establishment of Láí the Cultúrlann, the Shaws Road Gaeltacht, the Irish medium schools, Radio Fáilte, and the Andersonstown News group of newspapers to mention but some of the achievements over the years.

"It is quite a success story to establish a newspaper in an area of such high unemployment, and this very worthwhile project has an importance to the local economy as well as to the Irish language. The development of the Irish language daily Lá will see an increase in staff, with small offices opening in Dublin and Connemara.

"Publishing a daily paper is a huge challenge, and the experienced team at Lá are more than up to the task. Even their newest reporters, Aoife Ní Dhomhnaill, Michelle Nic Pháidín, Caomhán Ó Scollaí and áine Ní Ghallachóir are trained and experienced. I am sure that we can expect a first class news service from them."