Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

Has the Taoiseach become involved in the discussions between the Department of Finance and the various Departments on Colm McCarthy's report and its implications? In particular, is the Taoiseach aware of the sense of anger and fear that has been created by that report? Some have suggested the report has faded into the background and that he has done the Government's dirty work because he has delivered a report proposing massive cuts in public services and if one does not implement its recommendations, one can say to the people, "There you are; at least I didn't go as far as McCarthy, I am the best thing since sliced bread, or at least my Minister for Finance is."

Key areas of the McCarthy report have not had much concentration to date. I refer in particular to an area I know is close to the Taoiseach's heart, namely, moltaí McCarthy i leith maoiniú na scéimeanna Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta. Nach bhfuil siadsan ag teacht salach ar an méid a bhí le rá ag an Taoiseach nuair a toghadh é ar an gcéad dul síos, nuair a dúirt sé go mbeadh sé sásta tacaíocht iomlán a thabhairt don Ghaeilge? An raibh aon chomhráite ag an Taoiseach leis an Aire Ó Cuív faoi impleachtaí tuairisc McCarthy i leith athbheochan na Gaeilge agus na Gaeltachta?

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