Julie Jay, Michael Fry, and Shane Daniel Byrne have been announced as the ambassadors for Seachtain na Gaeilge 2025.
This year’s theme, Funny Focail, invites people to engage with the Irish language through humor and creativity.
At a special panel discussion,the ambassadors spoke about their experiences with the Irish language to date and the ways they will be using it throughout the festival and beyond.
Julie Jay is a comedian and a writer who has a weekly parenting column for The Irish Examiner. Michael Fry, a comedian, actor, and online content creator, has appeared in Derry Girls, Holding, and The Michael Fry Show on BBC Sounds. Shane Daniel Byrne is a comedian, writer, and actor with highly successful stand-up shows such as ‘But He’s Gay’ and ‘Trouble Denim’.
Speaking at the launch, Conchubhair Mac Lochlainn, Chairperson of Seachtain na Gaeilge le Energia, said: “With the 2025 festival fast approaching, I am delighted to announce the 2025 festival ambassadors. The three of them will contribute hugely to this year’s festival, and we look forward to them inspiring people from all across the country to take part in the celebrations.”
Orlaith Nic Ghearailt, Festival Manager of Seachtain na Gaeilge le Energia, added: “We are thrilled to have three outstanding comedians—Julie Jay, Michael Fry, and Shane Daniel Byrne—as this year’s festival ambassadors. All three will be sharing ‘funny words’ with everyone before and during the festival to give people the chance to use their Irish.”
The annual festival takes place from 1 to 17 March, with Irish-language events being held across Ireland and around the globe. For more information on the festival, resources, and how to take part, visit snag.ie.
