asked the Taoiseach the number of interviews conducted by examiners on behalf of the Local Appointments Commission last year to test the knowledge of Irish of applicants for posts and the cost thereof; the number of applicants examined and the number thereof who were deemed to have an adequate knowledge; and why it is still considered necessary to have separate interviews to test oral knowledge of Irish having regard to the fact that existing local authority officials who sit on the principal interview boards are deemed to be competent to converse and work in Irish.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers - Irish Language Qualification.
2.
The number of candidates tested in Irish in the year ended the 31st March, 1972, was 1,549 and the cost was £1,170. Of these, 1,346 were deemed to have either a good or a competent knowledge of Irish.
If these tests were to take place during the main interviews, the work of each interview board would take longer than it does at present. This would increase still further the already great difficulty of constituting interview boards.
Will the Taoiseach state when we will have a new policy on the question of Irish?
No.
I asked when are we going to have a new policy?
That is a separate question.
Would the Taoiseach not consider a new policy is indicated?
That is like the question: "When did you stop beating your wife?"
It is obvious there is discrimination in Irish and I am asking could there be a change of policy?
That is a different question altogether.