Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Feb 1997

Vol. 475 No. 4

Written Answers. - Irish Language Service.

Ben Briscoe

Question:

137 Mr. Briscoe asked the Minister for the Environment if he has satisfied himself that his Department makes adequate provision for members of the public who wish to have their business with his Department conducted in Irish, particularly in view of the problems experienced by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4870/97]

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Howlin)

My Department is fully committed to the implementation of Government policy with regard to the provision of bilingual services. Detailed policies adopted by the Department on foot of these guidelines are set out in an action plan for Irish which was drawn up in 1994. Within this framework, I am satisfied that reasonable provision has been made by the Department to facilitate members of the public who wish to conduct their business through Irish.

The Department has the capacity to conduct driving tests through the medium of Irish and Irish versions of all forms, etc. are available. On request, the Department provided a test, through Irish, on a motor cycle for the person referred to in June 1996. An application for a car test from the same person was received this month and this second test will also be conducted through the medium of Irish. I regret, however, that correspondence issued in English, in error, in both instances, through the computer system. Steps have been taken to prevent a recurrence in other cases.