Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

Senators O'Toole and Ryan raised issues regarding the attitude and competence of the Department of Education and Science in dealing with customers through Irish. I have a vague recollection of what Senator O'Toole is referring to, the Ballyvourney initiative taken some years ago, of which I have no knowledge other than that. However, I would like it explored in the Seanad Chamber or in committee. I have no idea what happened subsequent to the launching of that initiative but I remember it.

Senator Ryan spoke of the lack of competence of staff in the Department of Education and Science in dealing with customers through Irish. I am not familiar with the evidence for that but the allegation should not go unchallenged.