Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

On Deputy Ó Caoláin's question, the overall strategy on the Irish language is set out in the programme for Government. A 20-year strategic plan will be developed with support for the introduction of a language Act in Northern Ireland, as provided for in the St. Andrews Agreement. I was involved in those discussions and, as the Deputy stated, we have hit obstacles. It was part of the agreement and we continue to pursue it faithfully.

The Deputy's assessment is correct that it is a matter that should be agreed in the structures. We had an opportunity to talk to the Northern Ireland Minister directly involved. The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív has also pursued this directly. There is a negative view taken by some on it but we will continue to pursue what was agreed.

I do not have up-to-date information on achieving an all-party consensus on re-instituting the joint Oireachtas committee on the Irish language. It is a commitment, however, we intend to pursue.

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