First ever Irish-English road signs installed in Northern Ireland

Many businesses and organisations throughout West Belfast already use bi-lingual signage within and outside their premises.  

More than 2,000 residents who have applied for dual language street signs in Northern Ireland over the past five years.

The installation was introduced by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins.

"The implementation of bi-lingual signage on this part of the road network over the next few weeks is a further positive development for the Gaeltacht Quarter and demonstrates my commitment to comply with the European Charter of Minority and Regional Languages," she said.

"The Irish language reflects a shared identity and culture across this island."

"The introduction of bilingual road traffic signs is an important and positive development for the Gaeltacht Quarter and for the wider Irish-speaking community. Language is a visible expression of identity, and these signs recognise the everyday reality of thousands of people who live, work, study and visit this part of Belfast."

"This pilot demonstrates what can be achieved when government works collaboratively with communities."

“This initiative is the first of its kind anywhere in the north and, given the history of community language revival in the area, it is fitting that West Belfast, one of only five uniquely recognised Irish language planning areas across Ireland, has been selected to pilot this historic scheme.

“Dual language signage plays an essential role in increasing the visibility and normalisation of the Irish language within our shared public space.

"We look forward to continuing to work with the Minister and all relevant partners to see this successful pilot replicated in other communities in the very near future.”