Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2004
124 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the work programme of the recently announced Irish language advisory committee; when he plans to announce the nominees to the committee; and the reason the committee will not issue a report detailing its recommendations for the Irish language. [11925/04]
View answer125 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position in regard to his proposal to establish the Irish language advisory committee; the role, remit and purpose of the proposed committee; when he expects the committee to be in operation; the budget that will be given to the committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11842/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 124 and 125 together.
The role of the advisory committee will be to provide advice in relation to the advisability of preparing a 20 year strategic plan with realistic goals for the Irish language in the State; short-term strategic priorities for the preservation and the promotion of the Irish language within the State; priorities regarding the implementation of the Official Languages Act and the best and most practical ways to achieve progress with regard to the implementation of that work.
Arising from that, the objective will be to encourage an integrated approach among the main community and State organisations that promote the Irish language. The remit of the committee will cover all issues pertaining to Irish language policy.
I have written to various organisations seeking nominees to the committee. and would hope to announce the membership of the committee by mid-May. I anticipate the first meeting of the committee will be in June.
It will not be a function of the advisory committee to prepare a report. It will meet regularly to discuss and advise me with regard to a range of aspects of Irish language policy. This arrangement represents a more effective and immediate means of generating an action focused consensus about what needs to be done. Given the advisory nature of its work it is not anticipated at this juncture, that the committee will require a dedicated budget.
