In 2005, Foras na Gaeilge introduced Scéim Pobal Gaeilge (SPG) - the Irish Language Community Scheme - offering local voluntary community committees the opportunity to apply for financial assistance towards the costs of implementing a three year business plan for the development and enhancement of the Irish language among their respective target areas and groups.
SPG was first revised in 2016. In late 2019 Foras na Gaeilge submitted a discussion paper to my Department and to the Department for Communities in the North outlining a proposed revision of the existing scheme, seeking to align the scheme with the Government’s language planning approach - in keeping with the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language.
The paper, which was based on consultation with relevant stakeholders, also recommended that the funding to groups be increased to cover salary and associated costs.
It is proposed that the new scheme would focus on the principles of language planning, and that a primary objective of this revised scheme should be to support government policies - those set out in the Gaeltacht Act 2012, in respect of Irish language networks and Gaeltacht service towns, and in the north as outlined in the Draft Strategy to Enhance and Protect the Development of the Irish Language.
The new scheme is currently being finalised by Foras na Gaeilge in conjunction with my Department and the Department for Communities in the North. Subject to the completion of this process, it will be advertised publicly before the end of 2020 and will come into operation in July 2021.
