Binsí Comhrá Bring Irish, Placemaking and Belonging Together in OPW Parks Nationwide
New initiative transforms public benches into spaces for conversation, connection and community, supporting the everyday use of Irish while strengthening social interaction in shared public places.
17 July 2026 | carol@placeengage.com
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has launched Binsí Comhrá, a nationwide initiative that uses one of the simplest elements of public realm design – a park bench – to encourage conversation, strengthen community connections and promote the everyday use of the Irish language.
Already introduced by Gaeilge365 in partnership with Dublin’s four local authorities, the initiative is now being rolled out across OPW-managed sites throughout Ireland. Specially marked Binsí Comhrá (Irish Conversation Benches) invite visitors to sit down and begin a conversation as Gaeilge, regardless of their level of fluency.
The concept is intentionally inclusive. Whether someone speaks Irish every day or only has a cúpla focal, the benches are designed to create opportunities for spontaneous interaction, shared learning and new social connections in welcoming public spaces.
From a placemaking perspective, the initiative demonstrates how relatively small, low-cost interventions can have a significant social impact. Public parks have long been recognised as important civic spaces that support health, wellbeing and recreation. Binsí Comhrá add another dimension by encouraging social participation and cultural expression, helping transform passive public amenities into active places of encounter.
At a time when many communities continue to experience increasing social isolation despite unprecedented digital connectivity, initiatives that encourage face-to-face interaction have growing importance. Creating reasons for strangers to speak, share stories and build confidence in public spaces contributes to stronger local identity and a greater sense of belonging.
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran, said the initiative encourages both the Irish language and meaningful human connection.
“This is a wonderful initiative that not only encourages the use of the Irish language but just as importantly, provides opportunities for people to make real connections in an increasingly digital world. I encourage everyone, whether fluent speakers or new to the language, to enjoy these public spaces, spark up a conversation and have some fun while doing so.”
The initiative supports the Government’s Action Plan for Irish Language Public Services 2026–2028 and the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010–2030, demonstrating how language policy can be integrated into everyday public life through practical placemaking.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, said the project helps build stronger communities while supporting Irish as a living language.
“The ‘Binsí Comhrá’ initiative is a wonderful example of how simple ideas can make a meaningful difference in encouraging the everyday use of the Irish language. By creating welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat and practise their Irish, this initiative helps build stronger, more connected communities while supporting the continued growth of Irish as a living language.”
The national expansion also reflects growing collaboration between Government departments, local authorities and community organisations. Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron, speaking on behalf of Dublin’s four local authorities, described the initiative as an example of how straightforward ideas can create lasting social value.
“In a time of growing loneliness, Binsí Comhrá are becoming places where connection meets culture for so many. It’s a perfect example of Gaeilge365’s and Dublin City Council’s approach to Gaeilge, finding simple impactful ideas which can scale nationally and who knows with this one, maybe even internationally.”
For those working in placemaking, community development and public engagement, Binsí Comhrá offer an important reminder that successful places are shaped not only by physical infrastructure but also by opportunities for human interaction. By encouraging conversation, cultural participation and shared experiences, the initiative reinforces the role of public spaces as places where communities are built one interaction at a time.
Visitors are encouraged to look out for Binsí Comhrá at participating OPW locations and take a seat—whether to practise their Irish, meet someone new or simply enjoy a conversation in one of Ireland’s public parks.
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