Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I have seldom read a more enthusiastic or euphoric press statement from any Minister than the statement that was issued on 21 November last by the Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, about this lighting scheme. He said at the lighting-up ceremony that the lights represent much more than simply "Nollaig Shona". He said that they stand for the increasing re-awakening of interest in the Irish language in Dublin. He went on to describe the lights as symbolising the forthcoming global shedding of light on the Irish language. He was referring to the official languages initiative at EU level, which will begin on 1 January next.

The Minister sees this initiative as being so productive, all-embracing and symbolic that it is not enough for him to tell us he will advertise the scheme. I am not sure that business associations in cities and towns throughout the country are aware that funding is available for projects of this nature. Will the Minister consider making it known to such associations that money is available for this worthwhile initiative? I note there has been an increase of 18%, to €1.5 million, in the Estimates for the cultural and social schemes this year. If schemes like that are so productive, the Minister should do much more to highlight the fact that such funding is available.

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