Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that very much. What is the Government's plan to ensure that the institution of Irish summer colleges, which was an industry in itself, will continue in the future?

What are the Government's plans for keeping Irish as a compulsory subject for leaving certificate students? The removal of Irish as a compulsory subject in the leaving certificate would be the death knell of the Irish language. I know the Minister of State believes that to be true. I would like to hear what the Minister of State has to say about that.

In the past there were 19 Irish language institutions, such as Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge which has existed since 1943. There are now only six such institutions. These were great promoters of the Irish language. While no one would question the Minister of State's commitment to the Irish language, the Government has let the language down. Could the Minister of State respond to this?

I thank you, a Chathaoirligh, for your indulgence.