Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire agus lucht an Roinne. Tá brón orm nach bhfuil mo Ghaeilge a dóthain chun comhrá a dhéanamh agus cuirfidh mé mo cheisteanna trí Bhéarla.

In a previous meeting I asked on behalf of Conradh na Gaeilge about the publication of coronavirus information as Gaeilge and the Minister of State said that he is happy with the publications that are now issuing. Does the Minister feel that there has been enough communication as Gaeilge on social media to highlight the problem of coronavirus, its impacts and prevention?

I refer to the impact of the pandemic on the economy of the Gaeltacht areas and the islands in particular. I am a past visitor to Cape Clear and Ring is in my own constituency so I am well aware of the Gaelic and Gaeltacht experience, and the summer experience. Has the Minister thought of any future opportunities to try to engage people in the autumn and winter considering a large portion of the summer season will, I presume, have passed unfavourably?

On the matter of changing work practices, another issue that is being highlighted now is the ability of people to work remotely. Broadband is probably an issue Is there a possibility, particularly for the islands, to try to offer short-term working arrangements for people who might go there for a fortnight or a month and work there, even during the winter if such a thing were possible? This would be a great way to introduce visitors into Gaeltacht areas and it has to be feasible now.

Finally, the Minister mentioned the air services from Galway in particular. Is he satisfied that in the event of Covid activity in the autumn and winter the islands will be properly catered for and protected with respect to medical services?