As the Deputy is aware, Fóram na Gaeilge was established to advise inter alia on the advisability of preparing a 20-year strategic plan with realistic goals for the Irish language in the State. It was within this context that the views of the fóram in relation to the development of an Irish language plan and related short-term priority issues were sought in 2005.
As I have already outlined to the House, the need for the provision of a clear statement on the part of the Government in relation to the Irish language and its importance as a whole has emerged as a key issue on foot of the views provided within the fóram and considerable work is now in hand in relation to this matter. I hope to be in a position to elaborate further and to make specific proposals on this matter in the near future.