New ‘Binsí Comhrá’ in Wexford town encourages people to reconnect through Irish

A new initiative aimed at encouraging people to use the Irish language in everyday life has arrived in Wexford town.

The ‘Binsí Comhrá’, or Irish Conversation Benches, provides a relaxed space where people can sit down and chat as Gaeilge, whether they are fluent speakers or simply want to use a few words of Irish.

The Wexford bench is located in St Peter’s Square, beside the bandstand, and is part of a wider initiative developed by Gaeilge365 and now being rolled out across public spaces.

Speaking on Morning Mix, Wexford native and Gaeilge365 team member Róise Eilís Nic Eochaidh said the idea is to create a low-pressure environment where people feel comfortable using whatever Irish they have.

She said many people have Irish but often lack opportunities to use it in their everyday lives.

Róise said the benches have also highlighted the importance of social connection, with some users finding them a way to meet and chat with others.

She explained that when the team visited some of the benches already in place, they met people who were not only interested in speaking Irish but were also looking for conversation and company.

The Wexford-born Gaeilge365 member said there is no requirement to be fluent and encouraged people who may feel nervous about their Irish to give it a try.

The bench in St Peter’s Square includes useful phrases with phonetic spellings to help people get started.

Binsí Comhrá are now located in communities across the country, providing a space for people to connect, practise Irish and enjoy conversation in a relaxed setting.