asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state with respect to any State or semi-State body under the aegis of his Department, whether employment therein is dependent on a working knowledge of the Irish language; if so, the reason for such requirement; and in the interests of detente with that part of the Irish community which does not have an affection for the Irish language or may not have had an opportunity of acquiring an adequate knowledge of it, if he will take steps to remove the requirement particularly in respect of persons from Northern Ireland; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Language Requirement.
93.
In so far as the bodies under the aegis of my Department are concerned, recruitment of staff including the aspect of required qualifications, is a matter for the bodies themselves.
The National Development Association (Forbairt), who have responsibility for the "Buy Irish" Campaign, consider that, in view of the special nature of their functions and objectives, it is appropriate that their employees should have a working knowledge of the Irish language. I understand that in none of the other bodies is a working knowledge of Irish regarded as a required qualification for employment. I am satisfied that no action is called for by me in the matter.
Would the Minister say whether, in relation to the other bodies, preference is given to candidates who have a superior knowledge of Irish over candidates who might be superior in other disciplines but who might be lacking in their knowledge of Irish?
Appointments are worked out basically on the principle of the best man for the job.