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.