Mary Harney, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment today (Monday 15th March, 1999) officially launched Muintir Chrónáin's Bilingual plan in Áras Chrónán, Irish Cultural Centre, Clondalkin.

The Tánaiste said "I am delighted to be here to launch this Bilingual plan. It is a major step not only for Muintir Chrónáin but also for the Clondalkin area. I know that Clondalkin has one of the largest Irish speaking populations outside of the Gaeltacht area and Muintir Chrónáin are to be commended for their work in providing opportunities for the use of the Irish language. Bord na Gaelige constantly seek to promote Irish in the community and this plan will enable Muintir Chrónáin to provide even more opportunities for the use of the first official language in the Clondalkin area."

The plan is funded by Bord na Gaelige, £85,000, and will be developed by Muintir Chrónáin in conjuction with Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce. The £85,000 grant is spread over a two year period and will be used to encourage and develop Bilingualism in Clondalkin through signage and customer service throughout businesses and the community.

Muintir Chrónáin, established in 1972, is a community based voluntary organisation situated in Áras Chrónáin in Clondalkin promoting the Irish language, education, music, dancing and Irish culture to the wider Clondalkin area. All activities of Áras Chrónáin are carried out by members on a voluntary basis. Every week over 700 people attend social and educational activities there.