Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I should have mentioned the other piece. I gave a commitment to members last week on the consultation. To be clear, we will be looking at Údarás na Gaeltachta and Oifig an Choimisinéara Teanga as well when we come back on that consultation.

On the language planning amendment, one would have to clearly define the concept of language planning. "Language planning" is the phrase used in the amendment. My concern is that the proposed amendment would introduce ambiguity into this important provision of the Bill. It is vitally important that a balanced approach to the planning system is maintained. The definition of a language plan and those types of matters should be dealt with in the special area plans for each Gaeltacht. Deputy Ó Snodaigh referred to circumstances in which Baile Chláir or Moycullen, for example, would have much more acute and different issues from Rosmuck or Ballyvourney. This is why we need to get into the weeds on this to see what works for one area versus another. Rather than including a definition around language planning, I believe it would be much better to put it forward as part of the amendments. To be very clear, while respecting what is in the amendments and the reasons they are put forward, I genuinely believe that what I bring forward will do what members want but in a much better way. It will be driven from the primary legislation, the Act, but in real terms. People in the Gaeltacht want to see real change and something that is going to work as opposed to just concepts.

I went through this in detail last week and have done so again now. I am very confident that, working together, we can make a significant and positive change here that will ensure the cónaitheoirí sa Ghaeltacht are fully involved in the development of their own development plans within their areas.