Report: Job creation in Gaeltacht areas down

The number of jobs created in client companies of Údarás na Gaeltachta was down 20% in 2025 compared to 2024.

Nationally, 681 jobs were created, compared to 869 in 2024. The Cork Gaeltacht saw a 3% decrease in those employed in client companies, falling from 819 to 793. 63 new jobs were created in the region in 2025.

As of 31 October 2025, there were 14 vacancies available with client companies in the Cork Gaeltacht.

The total number of people employed by Údarás na Gaeltachta client companies by the end of last year was 9,716, down from 9,743 in 2024.

For the second consecutive year, sales by these companies have exceeded €1 billion. According to the report, €697 million was generated in exports, while €570 million was direct expenditure in the Irish economy.

This year also saw the implementation of 28 language plans across 26 areas and two towns. The scheme supports the increased use of Irish in the workplace.

The report also said the gteic network - a network of remote working hubs in Gaeltacht areas - was expanded to 29 hubs, which provided 867 workspaces for 436 employees.

A further two hubs are due to open in 2026.

On Cape Clear, a visitor’s centre was opened thanks to €4 million allocated for its development alongside a centre on Galway’s Aran Islands.

CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta Tomás Ó Síocháin said 2025 was a landmark year for the Gaeltacht.

“The creation of 681 new jobs with record success in securing competitive research funding, demonstrates the innovation and resilience of Gaeltacht enterprise.

“Our expansion of the gteic digital hub network and groundbreaking work in Irish-language AI development positions the Gaeltacht at the forefront of technological advancement while strengthening our language and communities,” he said.