Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

If I were using empty platitudes, I would not be in this House speaking today; I would be at home in Cork. I love my language and want to see it flourish, as do my colleagues.

I know of teachers who are visiting Irish summer camps this week in Cork city and various other parts of the country. They involve young people ag súgradh agus ag caint trí Ghaeilge agus ag foghlaim Gaeilge in the middle of urban areas. This did not happen when I was in school, nor did it happen ten years ago.

The parents and those who educate and lead must be brought with us. We cannot divide and conquer. Deputy Peadar Tóibín may sigh all he wants but his platitudes do not work and have not worked.

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