Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 5

Written Answers - Irish Language.

Seán Ryan

Question:

125 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures he has initiated or plans to take to increase the use of the Irish language countrywide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8331/03]

David Stanton

Question:

143 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will make a statement regarding the review of Irish language policy in his Department. [8382/03]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 125 and 143 together.

As part of the process of drawing up the first strategy statement for the newly established Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, a review was carried out of the range of departmental schemes and policies, including those in relation to the Irish language. In so far as Irish language policy is concerned, the process identified a number of critical issues to be addressed over the period 2003-05, including the recommendations of the report of the Commission on the Irish Language in the Gaeltacht; language planning, followed by the implementation of a focused action plan; and the provision of Irish-medium education at all levels.

As regards the provision of public services through Irish, the Official Languages (Equality) Bill 2002 has particular policy relevance and key tasks will include implementing its provisions, particularly by working with Departments and other public bodies to put in place agreed new schemes and structures regarding service provision through Irish and establishing an operating structure for the Official Languages Commissioner. Other key tasks will include rolling out, on a broad front, a series of practical, costed measures to strengthen Irish as the principal community language in the Gaeltacht and supporting Foras na Gaeilge in its task of increasing the use of the Irish language in everyday life throughout the island.

Question No. 126 answered with Question No. 108.