Louise Cantillon

Louise from Co Limerick, is a radio & television personality.

Let's get to know her a little bit.

I understand that your schooling was done through Irish but did your parents speak Irish?

We had and have Irish at home, my mom is an Irish teacher, and she spoke Irish to us growing up.

Where did you find your passion for Irish?

I feel like it was around me growing up in Limerick. My mum is very passionate about it and in secondary school (Laurel Hill, Limerick City) I had such a grá for it and I chose to do my university degree with Irish at UCC. I have a teaching degree (PE & Irish).

Where did you attend a Gaeltacht course? What are your memories of the Gaeltacht?

I went to Corca Dhuibhne, I stayed below in Ceann Trá with Bríd Ní Mhuircheartaigh when I was in secondary school. I went back to Baile na nGall during university! There isn't anywhere nicer in the world, I love Corca Dhuibhne and have many beautiful memories there. I got engaged back in Com Dhíneol on the beach during the pandemic in 2021.

You're qualified as a teacher and used to teach Irish & PE. Why did you leave the education sector?

I took a career break from teaching in 2018. I wanted to work in media, I was presenting radio programmes on Spin South West while teaching. When I left teaching, I got a full-time job as a presenter on Spin SW and I started working with TG4 as well. Since then, I have been busy in the Media between radio, TV and podcasts.

Have you always imagined working in the media?

I don't think so, I'm always so grateful for all the opportunities I've had over the last few years! I get so much enjoyment out of the work I'm doing right now and I'm glad I took the opportunity to take a break from teaching.

Are there any podcasts or radio shows that inspired you as you started out with How To Gael?

There are a lot of great podcasts and radio programmes available entirely through Irish and in English. We wanted to create dual language content and use a mix of English / Irish. Not much was available bilingually, and we found that gap! We always say that How to Gael is a good starting point for someone who is learning as well as someone who enjoys bilingualism! Our little pod has grown considerably over the last two years, and we are proud to have a lovely and supportive audience.

Is it difficult to take breaks in the sector you are in?

Yeah, I'd say so! And it's because of the fun that comes with work. I don't feel like working at times—and I'm not good at refusing to work! Lol. Currently working on that.

You are a big name in Irish and English language media. When people recognise you, do they speak to you in English or Irish?

Go raibh maith agat. It depends on who is speaking to me, but both happen, and I really like that.

Do you prefer to work in the Irish or English media?

It depends on the gig haha!

You're on the programme Téacs Taistil, where haven't you been yet that you'd like to visit?

Oooh! I've never been to Australia, or New Zealand. I'd love to go there!

When you and Declan are out and about socially, who gets spotted first, you or Declan?

Haha! Declan. Even without the helmet!

What is your favourite word or phrase?

Is maith liom an focal plámás agus duine atá go maith aige! I like the word ‘flattery’ and someone who is good at it!