Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Coming from the constituency he represents, the Minister of State would have a better understanding than I would of a Gaeltacht area. However, the setting up of the educational training boards is ultimately about providing a better service for users. The Minister of State has alluded to the fact that he believes it will be apparent to the boards that will deal with and represent Gaeltacht areas that they should provide a service as Gaeilge as required. Therefore, I do not understand the reluctance on the part of the Department to accept this amendment. Fianna Fáil supports the Bill in general and any amendment we bring forward is constructive and can only help improve the Bill.

Based on our consultation with VECs and people involved in Gaeltacht areas, they want an amendment to the legislation to ensure the service can be provided as Gaeilge by the boards that look after a jurisdiction with a Gaeltacht area. It is regrettable the Department and the Minister of State are unwilling to take this amendment on board. My colleague, Deputy McConalogue, made the point far more strongly on Committee Stage and he has apologised for being unable to be here today. It is regrettable the Government is not prepared to accept the amendment being put forward.

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