Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 31 May 2018
261. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the status of the €2.5 million allocated for the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language and other Irish language supports as outlined in budget 2018; the amount of the allocation that has been spent; the way in which the moneys were spent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24217/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI assume the Deputy is referring to the €2.65m allocated specifically in Budget 2018 to further support the implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 and the language planning process, as set out under the Gaeltacht Act 2012.
Given that the implementation of the language planning process is now gathering momentum, with language plans moving to the implementation stage in 2018, the entire allocation will be directed towards its implementation this year. In addition to the funding of language plans, a number of specific new measures will be introduced to support centrally both the language planning process and the Policy on Gaeltacht Education 2017-2022, both of which are key drivers of the 20-Year Strategy. The allocation of funding within the overall funding envelope is currently being finalised and I will be announcing the funding arrangements for the various measures over the coming weeks.
The language planning process is now underway in all 26 Gaeltacht areas and the first six language plans have been approved. Six further plans are currently being assessed by the Department with the expectation of approving them in the near future. An allocation of up to €100,000 will be provided over a 12 month period in respect of each area in order to begin implementing the plans. An additional €50,000 will be allocated in respect of 5 specific language planning areas due to particular challenges associated with these areas.
The preparation of plans is in hand in relation to the Gaeltacht Service Towns of Letterkenny and Daingean Uí Chúis, and the cities of Galway and Cork, while it is anticipated that work will begin this year to prepare plans in respect of Dungarvan, Tralee, An Clochán Liath and Castlebar.
Preparation of plans continues in relation to the Irish Language Networks of Ennis, Loughrea and Clondalkin, with plans expected to be submitted for approval by end of year.
