Pádraig Ó Céidigh (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support Senator McDowell in regard to the debate on Seanad reform.

Senator Conway-Walsh is correct that there is a two-tier system in regard to water. I chaired the Joint Committee on the Future Funding of Domestic Water Services. One of its recommendations is that equality will prevail. I hope that action will be taken in that regard and commend Senator Conway-Walsh for raising the issue.

There was a very good discussion in the House yesterday with the Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy McHugh, regarding a 20-year plan and strategy for the Irish language. He is committed to the strategy. I mentioned that John Wayne once said that when one is on a dead horse, the best thing to do is to get off. The Irish language plan is not working. Over the past six years, there has been a 12% decrease in the number of people actively speaking Irish. Article 8.1 of the Constitution enshrines the Irish language as the first official language of the State. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister of State, Deputy McHugh, to the House for a full debate lasting at least two hours in order that all Members can have an input into this very important area concerning who Irish people are and what we are about. I ask the Leader if the debate could be had when the House reconvenes in September or as soon as possible thereafter.