Brian Walsh (Galway West, Fine Gael)

The Bill also amends the functions of Údarás na Gaeltachta and radically alters the way in which its composition is derived. The Fianna Fáil Party in opposition has been jumping up and down about this Bill but there is no member of that party present in Chamber. Deputy Ó Cuív was here earlier. The members of that party made a song and dance about the way this Bill is being put through the Dáil and Seanad but they are not here to contribute to the debate. Perhaps one of the reasons they are so vehement in their opposition to the Bill is that it takes politics out of the institution which is tasked with promoting the Irish language, and that is right and proper. There is such an important function that it should transcend the political divide. Members of Údarás na Gaeltachta will no longer be directly elected by Gaeltacht communities. Instead they will be appointed by the local authorities and the Minister will also have responsibility to appoint a number of members. This will facilitate the appointment of members with an acute expertise in language development that will be important in the onerous task we have of reviving the language. I have a little more to say but I note the Acting Chairman is signalling that I should conclude.

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