Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Déarfainn go n-aontóinn gach éinne liom gur tréimhse an-tábhachtach agus an-stairiúil í seo toisc go bhfuil stádas oifigiúil oibre bainte amach ag an Ghaeilge — ní amháin go bhfuil sé stairiúil don Ghaeilge féin, ach do ghradam na tíre seo go hidirnáisiúnta. Tugann sé dóchas do gach éinne atá ag saothrú an chultúir Ghaelaigh, agus táim lán-chinnte go mbeidh tionchar ag an toradh seo, ní amháin lasmuigh den tír ach taobh istigh freisin.

There is no doubt that this is an historic and significant time in the life of this nation. When I first raised in this House the possibility of achieving working status for the Irish language in the European Union, it was as much a vision as an expectation. However, I was delighted with the solidarity and unanimity that existed across the board. An all-party motion was brought before this House and I thank the Opposition for its part in producing that motion. We gave a lead to the Dáil because shortly afterwards a united approach was also displayed there.

The significance of what has happened is that we tapped into the goodwill that exists in this country towards the Irish language. No political football is involved. We must provide leadership for that goodwill. I take this opportunity to congratulate the campaign group Stádas, which did so much work in alerting us to the necessity for this. It is a good day for Ireland and its people.