My Department actively supports the Irish language and most publications, circulars, application forms and specialised stationery such as cheque stationery is available in both Irish and English. From 1 May last, any document setting out public policy proposals or considered to be of major public importance must be published simultaneously in both Irish and English. The cost impact is minimal as my Department is already compliant with this statutory requirement.
The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht affairs will be writing to each public body to ask them to set out a three-year scheme identifying the services that will be provided through Irish. When my Department is given notice under the terms of the legislation, the scheme setting out the services and the estimated cost of providing these services through Irish will be drawn up.