Seanad debates

Wednesday, 9 April 2003

Official Languages (Equality) Bill 2002: Committee Stage (Resumed). SECTION 9.

 

Senator O'Toole referred on numerous occasions yesterday to féinmhuinín – self-confidence. Many people who are motivated to speak Irish are not self-confident in their ability. We must try to encourage people and tap into the goodwill that exists. This is my interpretation and if I am wrong I will be delighted for the Minister correct me. I do not agree with a dictatorial approach that tells people they must reply in Irish on all occasions to a communication made in Irish. I am familiar with people in public bodies, Government Departments and local authorities, who will be put off by such an approach. We must encourage and enable the use of the language to build on the goodwill that exists for the Irish language. I do not wish to take away from the sound principles enunciated by Senator Ryan.

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