Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
444. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans to examine the feasibility of introducing a voluntary code for bilingual labelling and packaging of all goods sold in Ireland as envisaged in the 20 year strategy on the Irish language; his views on whether such a measure would have exceptional benefits to promoting the Irish language; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8354/14]
View answerAt the outset, it should be noted that my Department is charged with implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 in collaboration and partnership with relevant stakeholders, including agencies directly funded by my Department. In that context, Foras na Gaeilge, an agency of the North South Language Body, An Foras Teanga, has a key statutory role in the provision of resources and support for the Irish language on an all-island basis. In regard to the feasibility of introducing a voluntary code for bilingual labelling and packaging of goods sold in Ireland, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that Foras na Gaeilge is currently compiling an e-book on best practice in bilingual packaging. The recommendations in the e-book entitled Pacáistíocht Dhátheangach–Treoir ar an gCleachtas is Fearr are based on research commissioned by Foras na Gaeilge and carried out by the Dublin Institute of Technology. The e-book is aimed primarily at private sector companies and will demonstrate how bilingual packaging can be used to competitive advantage. It is envisaged that the e-book will be available later this year.
Foras na Gaeilge has already produced an e-book on best practice in bilingual signage entitled Comharthaíocht Dhátheangach–Treoir ar an gCleachtas is Fearr which is available on www.gaeilge.ie/treoir. In addition, a voluntary code of best practice for businesses that wish to use the Irish language, Q-Mharc Gnó le Gaeilge, is being developed by Foras na Gaeilge.
