"Get the focal" was officially launched today. see Press Release below.
‘GET THE FOCAL’
Over 12,000 Irish words at your fingertips….
Maithú, a west of Ireland based IT company and Foras na Gaeilge today launched ‘Get the Focal’, a mobile phone application which provides over 12,000 English-Irish translations for off-line use.
By texting ‘Focal’ to 53503 (ROI, €0.30 inc. VAT) or 83222 (UK, £0.25 inc. VAT), the unique application, ‘Get the Focal’, can be fully downloaded for free as a trial version. The full version, with 12,000 words can be unlocked for as little as €5 including VAT, which will be billed to your mobile.
‘Get the Focal’ can be accessed from your mobile phone fast and free at any time with no internet usage. It is simple to use , with no operator charges and can be applied to all modern mobile phones (must support Java applications > 128Kb). More details are available on www.getthefocal.com.
Speaking at the launch, Cearbhall Ó Droighneain, CEO, Maithú said, “ We developed the service in response to a direct need for help in learning the Irish language in real life situations. ‘Get the Focal’ is ideal for Irish language students, parents, teachers, civil servants or indeed anyone interested in the Irish language.
“Over the last number of years we have seen increased interest in the Irish language and we believe that ‘Get the Focal’ will assist people whether it is through their journey of learning the language or simple conversations where we ask ‘what is the Irish word for ... ?’.
“We want to thank Foras na Gaeilge and CÉIM for their support with ‘Get the Focal’. Their expertise and support has enabled us to develop a unique Irish language service which can benefit many people,” concluded Cearbhall Ó Droighneain.
Speaking on behalf of Foras na Gaeilge, Gearóid Trimble said, “ The Irish language is becoming increasingly visible in all aspects of life and this service offers 12,000 Irish words at your fingertips. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Maithú.”
About Foras na Gaeilge
Foras na Gaeilge, the body responsible for the promotion of the Irish language throughout the whole island of Ireland, was founded on the second day of December 1999. Foras na Gaeilge is a North/South Implementation body that was founded as a result of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. The role of Foras entails facilitating and encouraging the use of Irish in the public and private arena in the Republic of Ireland, and in Northern Ireland where there is appropriate demand. Its role also involves advising administrations, North and South, as well as public bodies and other groups in the private and voluntary sectors in all matters relating to the Irish language. Foras na Gaeilge also undertake supportive projects and grant-aid bodies and groups throughout the island of Ireland.
About Maithú
Maithú limited are an IT company established by brothers Míchéal and Cearbhall Ó Droighneain with Offices in Ballina, Co. Mayo and in the Digital Hub, Dublin. They specialise in customised software for computers and mobile devices and also web application development and hosting. They are very pleased to work on projects involving the promotion of the Irish language and culture. The 'Get the Focal' translator was developed with the assistance of Foras na Gaeilge and Enterprise Ireland through the CÉIM program.
For more information about Maithú please contact
Cearbhall Ó Droighneain on 087 9349516
