By Róise Collins

A FESTIVAL of Irish music, language and culture will take place in Gaoth Dobhair this weekend to celebrate the life and legacy of much-loved broadcaster and Irish language activist Rónán Mac Aodha Bhuí.

A native of Gaoth Dobhair, Rónán began broadcasting in 1987, initially on pirate radio stations in Dublin and Donegal. He later went on to work with RTÉ, TG4, and RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

He sadly passed away in September 2023 at the age of 53, following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Rónán left an indelible mark as both a political activist and a passionate champion of the Irish language.

Kneecap credit him with giving them their first-ever gig and when the group signed their first record deal, they dedicated the moment to their long-time supporter.

Last year marked the first anniversary of his passing and with it the launch of the Dorn San Aer (Fist in the Air) festival, which was created to honour Rónán and provide a platform for Irish language artists.

This year’s festival will be officially opened by the Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland, Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid on Friday, at 7.30pm.

Event organisers took to social media to say it is an honour and a privilege to have an international diplomat opening the festival.

They added that as both a person and a broadcaster, Rónán always stood against oppression and injustice around the world – particularly where it affected minority races and languages.

The weekend’s events will take place across three venues: Ionad Cois Locha, Teach Hiúdaí Beag and Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair. The line-up includes headlining performances from Belfast reggae band Bréag, funk group Grooveline and tradtronica ensemble Huartan.

On Saturday, a Battle of the Bands-style competition will take place in partnership with RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, with prizes of up to €2,000 up for grabs.

For more information and tickets, visit www.dornsanaer.ie