Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I just want to speak in support of our native language and all the people who put in so much work and effort in communities scattered around this country, particularly Gaeltacht areas, but of course in cities also. It is the Gaeltacht areas, however, that keep the language going for us. Our own native Irish language is an essential part of our national identity. We know that in this global village it is our national identity that makes us strong. We all like to know where we are from. The key and the secret to that is in our language.

I was happy to attend a recent event organised by Údarás na Gaeltachta in Belmullet. It was about digital hubs and the need to bring broadband into remote areas in order that businesses can operate. I commend the údarás on the work it does. Clearly, these are areas of fine natural beauty. There are great communities there but they cannot live on fresh air. The young people cannot live on fresh air so broadband is imperative. I commend efforts in that regard and the funding provided to the údarás.

I have two questions, both of which were raised by Conradh na Gaeilge in the run-up to the budget. First, Conradh na Gaeilge suggests that there is a disparity between the funding of community organisations in English-speaking areas and in Gaeltacht areas. Basically, Gaeltacht community development groups and co-operatives get less funding for their staff than similar organisations in English speaking areas.

There was also a suggestion that local organisations are not getting enough funding to roll out the plans made under the pleanáil teanga. I welcome the funding which the Minister of State provided in the budget. On the issue of speaking Irish-----