In July 2014, Joe McHugh TD faced one of the most significant challenges of his political career. Appointed Minister for Natural Resources, the Gaeltacht and the Islands, McHugh was tasked with promoting the Irish language, despite having a limited grasp of the language himself. The outcry from the Irish-speaking community was immediate, with protestors chanting ‘Aire gan teanga, Aire gan clue’ (A Minister without a language is a Minister without a clue) outside Government Buildings. But instead of retreating, McHugh embraced this personal and public challenge, embarking on a journey to become a fluent Irish speaker.
In Beidh Tú Alright, Joe McHugh shares his candid account of overcoming the daunting task of mastering Irish as an adult. He takes readers behind the scenes, revealing the emotional and intellectual struggles faced, and the deep connections he forged with the language, its history, and the Irish-speaking communities.
McHugh’s journey was not just about learning a language but rediscovering its cultural significance. From uncovering the meaning behind place names like Maam Cross and Gleann an Ghiolla Ghránna to finding inspiration in the landscapes of Bear Island and Gleann Cholm Cille, Beidh Tú Alright delves into how language can connect us to our heritage, our sense of place, and our own identity.
Beidh Tú Alright is a powerful nod to the resilience of the human spirit, the importance of cultural heritage, and the joy of lifelong learning. McHugh’s personal story will inspire both those who have yet to start their Irish language journey and those who may have once given up.
Joe McHugh is a former Fine Gael politician from Donegal, who served as Minister of State and Chief Whip from 2014 to 2018, and as Minister for Education and Skills from 2018 to 2020. Joe retired from politics in November 2024 upon the dissolution of the 33rd Dáil. He is currently completing a MSc at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences at RCSI and plans to become an executive coach.