Northern Ireland

Young loyalist Joel Keys: 'I can confidently count to 10 in Irish'

Joel Keys has revealed he 'can confidently count to 10 in Irish'
Joel Keys has revealed he 'can confidently count to 10 in Irish'
By Suzanne McGonagle

Young loyalist Joel Keys has revealed that he has some basic Irish language knowledge.

Writing on Twitter, the political activist from east Belfast said: "I can confidently count to 10 in Irish".

His comments came as Mr Keys answered a series of "ask me anything anonymously" questions on Twitter.

One Twitter user asked him: "What are your thoughts of the Irish language, have you ever tried to learn a phrase or two?"

After explaining his basic numeracy knowledge of the Irish language, Mr Keys said it was "thanks to" Linda Ervine, before admitting he "cannot so confidently count to 20".

The 21-year-old added that Ms Ervine, an Irish language activist, was "a fantastic teacher".

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Mr Keys was asked numerous other questions, including his view on which political party he believes "the union has the best chance with".

"All things considered, I think probably the UUP," he wrote.

"I think the DUP/TUV will struggle to convince any non-unionists to become unionists without a change in strategy.

"That being said, I do think the DUP are in the best position to actually win seats."

Also asked if "it's only a matter of time until a united Ireland", he replied: "Not necessarily."

"Although if no serious changes are made to how we do things here, then yes," he added.