Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has commissioned two independent research projects to examine the economic potential of the Irish language. The studies, to be conducted by Queen’s University Belfast, will assess the language's impact on local regeneration and its role in supporting the Irish-medium workforce.

The minister explained that while the cultural and social value of Irish is recognised, its economic possibilities have received less attention. The research is intended to inform policy on good jobs and skills development and to encourage wider societal integration.

The first study is expected to be launched in autumn 2026, with the second following in spring 2027. Both aim to provide a robust evidence base for future decisions.

Irish Language Commissioner Pól Deeds welcomed the move, describing it as timely in light of the Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Act 2022. He noted that investment in Irish-language social infrastructure already delivers tangible benefits, including additional capital investment and improved educational outcomes, which in turn generate wider economic returns. He said the research should strengthen the evidence for public spending in this area.