Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Legislative Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2012

Tuesday, 22 May 2012

Ceisteanna (421)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

518 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans for the introduction of legislation to afford statutory recognition to Irish sign language; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25122/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

There are no plans agreed by Government for the introduction of further legislation in this area. As outlined in the Programme for Government, it is the Government's intention to promote the recognition of Irish Sign Language (ISL).

In line with the policy of mainstreaming, sign language is reflected in the responsibilities of several Ministers under the Education Act 1998, Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 and the Disability Act 2005. In addition the Sign Language Interpreting Service is provided for under the Citizens Information Board.

This existing legislation gives a level of recognition and practical measures equal to, or above that, in countries which have formally recognised sign language.

Barr
Roinn