Sometimes it requires the perspective of outsiders to reveal just how idiosyncratic Irish life is. Foreign Teanga, Produced by Simon Ó Gallchobhair, documents a group of 7 foreign nationals who for a variety of reasons are studying beginners level Irish with Conradh na Gaeilge.

Coming from diverse backgrounds (USA, Denmark, Wales, Latvia & England) the students are united in their enthusiasm for Irish in contrast to many of their Irish friends & colleagues. Free from any grievances towards the language Foreign Teanga captures the progression of the students over a 10 week course.

During their first break the students order coffee as gaeilge and over time they learn a great deal while sharing their opinions of what they really think of Ireland and its people.

Selected Quotes:

"At the dinner table when they found out I was going to learn Irish they laughed at me. It wasn't the best reaction I could have asked for, not the most inspiring"- Maggie, an American student who has decided to learn Irish.

"It drives me absolutely mad that I'm learning Irish to promote the language but I don't know whether I have ever heard.... someone speaking Irish by choice on the streets of Dublin and I find that very confusing."- David, Wales

"People in the office looked at me like I was insane. They asked me why on earth would you take an Irish class"- Kerry, USA

"Irish are proud of their language but I have the impression that people are sad that their knowledge level is not high"- Oxana, Latvia

Foreign Teanga will air on Newstalk 106-108fm on Saturday July 5th at 7am, repeated Sunday July 6th at 6pm. This documentary was made with the support of the BAI Sound & Vision Scheme.