Belfast City Council approves new Irish language policy

Belfast City Council has approved a new Irish language policy aimed at increasing the use of Irish across city services and public spaces.

By Rachel Graham1 min read

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Belfast City Hall viewed from Donegall Square — Belfast City Hall in Donegall Square. File photograph. Picture: Simon Burchell, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Belfast City Council voted in favour of adopting a new draft Irish language policy during a council meeting on 1 October 2025. The policy includes plans for English-Irish signage at council facilities and a new bilingual logo for vehicles and uniforms.

A Democratic Unionist Party proposal to maintain existing staff uniforms was defeated by 42 votes to 17. The council's Strategic Policy and Resources committee had previously approved the 18-page policy in September 2025. Design work for the new corporate identity is ongoing.

Sinn Féin councillor Tomás Ó Néill described the policy as transformative and a historic decision. Conradh na Gaeilge welcomed the move, calling it a major milestone for language rights and equality. The council confirmed a high-level implementation plan for the next two years.