Joan Caine

Joan Caine

2010

Culture Vannin’s prestigious Reih Bleeaney Vanannan award was presented to Peel resident Joan Caine in a ceremony in the Millennium Room on Friday 18th January 2010. The award was presented by then Chairman of Culture Vannin and Minister for Education, the Hon Annie Craine, MHK.

For many years Joan Caine has worked fervently and effectively for Manx Gaelic. Her main contribution has been as a member of Caarjyn ny Gaelgey (Friends of the Manx Language) in organising and delivering Manx lessons in St John’s House at St John’s, something which she has done for over ten years. Joan has set up a variety of Manx classes for students ranging from beginners to near-fluent speakers, and also arranges fund-raising activities for the Friends.

Joan has also served for a considerable number of years as the secretary of the Gaelic Broadcasting Committee. She is a member of Cooinceil ny Gaelgey (Manx Gaelic Advisory Council), the official body which provides translations and new terminology in Manx. Mrs Craine said that Joan’s efforts have resulted in Manx now having a more secure position in the community than it has had for the last fifty years. It is certain that without her invaluable work there would be fewer speakers of Manx Gaelic. Mrs Craine commented that all of Joan’s time was given on a voluntary, unpaid basis and that she embodies a quiet determination and commitment to Manx Gaelic that all those involved in the language movement can learn from.