Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Teachta as a cuid ceisteanna agus gabhaim buíochas don ateangaire.

I am advised the planning system in Ireland recognises the importance of continued daily use of the Irish language, especially in Gaeltacht areas. Section 46 of the Bill places an obligation on planning authorities to prepare, as part of a city or county development plan, a strategy relating to the creation, improvement and preservation of sustainable places and communities. This includes a provision relating to the protection of linguistic and cultural heritage, including the protection of Irish as the community language of Gaeltacht areas and in the functional area to which development plans relate. The guidelines state planning authorities should ensure development plans have regard to the provisions of the language plan and include objectives to support the promotion of the Irish language in Gaeltacht areas.

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