Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Aontaím leis an Seanadóir O'Toole go mbeadh sé cabhrach dá dtiocfadh an tAire isteach agus labhairt linn faoin Ghaeilge go forleathan, ní amháin an comhionannas teanga ach stádas na Gaeilge san Eorap fosta. Chuala mé faoin scéal a bhí sa nuachtán Dé Domhnaigh. Shéan an tAire sin agus dúirt sé nach raibh búnus leis. Tá mé lán cinnte dá dtiocfadh sé isteach linn anseo, bheadh sé in ann soiléiriú a thabhairt ar an scéal.

The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, has said the story which appeared in a Sunday newspaper had no foundation in fact. It is to be expected that certain stories would float around given the volume of work required to put in place an equality of languages structure as well as the seeking of working-language status for Irish in Europe. It is important for the Minister to attend the House to discuss these matters. My recollection of the debate on both issues is that a great deal of goodwill and unanimity obtained. It is important to maintain these attitudes. I am inclined to lean towards the position outlined by Senator Ryan. We require a certain amount of practicality and pragmatism in approaching the language issue. From the contributions I heard in the House, I note there is a great deal of expertise and experience which could be brought to bear on how best to implement the aspirations and legislation we have.