Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

As was undertaken on Committee Stage, what Deputy Howlin proposed was considered, and a number of issues arise notwithstanding as he correctly states the phrase "as far as practicable" is included in his amendment. One of the concerns was that should matters of law arise to be determined by the courts, the issue of language would be central to the outcome.

There is also difficulty in that many countries have more than one language, so the language may not be determined from the nationality. When we examined the number of applicants, a considerable number are from countries where English is a spoken language in any event, such as the Philippines, India and South Africa. We do not want to provide translation for some and not for others. On balance, having come from the position of considering it a good idea, it does not seem sensible to provide for it in the legislation. It would be desirable that translations be made available. It does not seem appropriate that it be included as a provision of the legislation.

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